Winnipeg reflects on journey toward reconciliation in 150th anniversary graphic

The City of Winnipeg has unveiled the graphic it will use throughout the year as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.

The Winnipeg 150 graphic will appear in prominent locations across the city, including on banners outside city hall.

The graphic was unveiled at a ceremony Monday morning.

"What we wanted an image that was truly iconic for this unique moment of reflection and celebration," Mayor Scott Gillingham said.

"We wanted an image that points to the experiences of Winnipeggers themselves, one to honour Winnipeg's Indigenous roots, our natural beauty, rich diversity and our shared bright future together."

The graphic features multiple symbols representing Winnipeg, including a prairie crocus (the provincial flower), the Red and Assiniboine rivers (which meet in the centre of Winnipeg)and an overlay of the city's current footprint.

It's enclosed by the outline of a turtle shell to represent Turtle Island and has other symbols representing the city's Indigenous roots. Two footprints represent the path toward reconciliation.

The Winnipeg 150 graphic was designed by Jordan Stranger, who created the brand Tootem Doodem. Stranger is a Cree visual artist from Peguis First Nation. He's been living in Winnipeg since 2000.

"It was great to hear that the city wanted to include a symbol of reconciliation, which you can see with the orange feet. They are accompanied by the sacred medicine of sage," Stranger said.

"It's with this artwork that I hope to make this point in timein recognition of those who came before us and in honour of the path ahead. May we all find peace, respect and love and discover what the city means to each of us."

The city is working with the Forks Trading Company to make merchandise with the new logo available in the near future.