The Hamilton Tiger-Cats have unveiled a new Indigenous logo for Canada’s upcoming National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The logo was designed by Indigenous artist Kyle Joedicke, who is Cayuga from Six Nations of the Grand River, Turtle Clan.
“I wanted to remain true to the identity of Hamilton and the identity of the teams while incorporating a style of art that is intrinsically Indigenous and very specific to our culture,” said Joedicke, who also designed a logo for Forge FC of the Canadian Premier League.
“The most important part of this is visibility. It shows that Indigenous people are a part of the sporting community in Hamilton, just as Indigenous people are a part of every community in Hamilton.”
On Saturday, Sept. 30, the Ticats and the visiting Calgary Stampeders will wear orange and white jerseys during pregame warmup. Select jerseys will be made available for sale after the game with proceeds benefitting the Hamilton Regional Indian Centre in support of residential school survivors. T-shirts featuring the logo are currently available for purchase on the team’s website with all proceeds going to the same institution.
Hamilton has invited over 250 Indigenous youth and families from local communities including Six Nations, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, and surrounding communities to attend the game. Former defensive lineman John Macdonald, who is Mohawk, Wolf clan from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, will be the game’s alumnus of distinction and there will be a drum circle and performance from hoop dancer Lisa Odjig at halftime.
“Truth and Reconciliation is vital for Canadians and it’s important for our organization to do its part to recognize the tragedies of the past and the impact that is still being felt by Indigenous communities today,” said Hamilton Sports Group president of business operations and COO Matt Afinec.
The Ticats are the latest team to unveil an Indigenous logo, joining the B.C. Lions, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Edmonton Elks.
Hamilton (6-7) is scheduled to visit the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday, Sept. 23 with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. EDT.
