Representing a nation

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The Assembly of First Nations has unveiled a new logo for its organization. The design was produced by Frank King of the Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation in Ontario from more than 200 submissions. "The design is a bold representation of important symbols which represent the cultural and traditional heritage of First Nations in Canada," said AFN National Chief Phil Fontaine. The new logo incorporates the eagle and bear which represent strength; the spirit symbol, representing the need to embrace First Nation culture and teachings; the medicine wheel, representing that the First Nations way of life will always be protected and nurtured; and seven eagle feathers, representing the seven generations of the past and the future. The decision to retire the old logo came after a survey showed the logo did not represent appropriately all First Nations citizens.