Montreal has added a white pine tree to the centre of its coat of arms and city flag in recognition the contribution of Indigenous people to the city.
The white pine, described as the “tree of peace,” is a symbol of the unity of the nations of the Haudenosaunee confederacy.
Montreal’s new flag was unveiled at a ceremony in front of City Hall on Wednesday. (Charles Contant/CBC)
Mayor Denis Coderre says the change is part of an effort to move toward reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
“Today is a historical day for Montreal,” he said in a statement.
Montreal’s is ‘proud of its Indigenous roots,’ reads a banner displaying the city’s new crest. (Charles Contant/CBC)
The mayor’s office also confirmed Wednesday that the city will change the name of Amherst Street, named after the former British general Jeffery Amherst.
Scholars have long debated Amherst’s actions during his service, including allegations he advocated the use of biological warfare, through smallpox blankets, to kill Indigenous peoples.
The city has not decided on a new name for the street.
Praise from Quebec chief
Ghislain Picard, the chief of the Assembly of First Nations for Quebec and Labrador, praised the decision to add an Indigenous symbol to its flag.
“The City of Montreal demonstrates its commitment by acknowledging, in its coat of arms and flag, the historical and contemporary presence of our peoples,” Picard said.
Ghislain Picard, the chief of the Assembly of First Nations for Quebec and Labrador, was on hand for Wednesday’s announcement. (Charles Contant/CBC)
The previous flag had four symbols representing four of the city’s founding communities:
- A Fleur-de-lys, representing the French.
- A red Rose of Lancaster, representing the English.
- A thistle, representing the Scots.
- A shamrock, representing the Irish.