The Saskatchewan Roughriders have unveiled their Indigenous logo, which will be worn on their helmets this weekend when they host the Ottawa Redblacks at Mosaic Stadium.
The logo was designed by Chris Chipak of Red Pheasant Cree Nation (Treaty 6), an artist and teacher who resides in Saskatoon, Sask.
According to Chipak, the ribbon-like skyline of his design pays tribute to Saskatchewan’s identity as “the land of the living skies” with the four lines symbolizing the four seasons. The sun, positioned near the water and grass, emphasizes the Treaty promise and signifies the interconnectedness of all things.
The Treaty 4 flag served as inspiration to incorporate the buffalo seen on the right side of the logo. It is meant to embody the spirit of the Saskatchewan prairies and represent the willingness to live sustainably. The flowing river’s eight circles represent eight native berries of Saskatchewan, while the two upright feathers symbolize great respect and authority as well as Two-Spirited people.
“My goal has always been to have my work leave a story, even when art can’t be seen the stories carry on. My focus on this piece was to promote the importance of the land and the beauty of the prairies,” said Chipak in a statement. “I hope as this logo is revealed it provides healing, hope and inclusion to all. I wanted this to be a timeless logo that heals us from the past, make us feel in the present, and gives us hope for a better future.”
“As a team, we are profoundly honoured to showcase this beautiful logo created by local Indigenous artist Chris Chipak,” said team president and CEO Craig Reynolds. “Each element of the logo is steeped with deep meaning, and we hope Rider Nation will not only wear it with the same pride as our football team but take a moment to reflect on Truth and Reconciliation and our connection to each other.”
The Riders will wear orange uniforms during warmup before Saturday’s game, which will be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Northern Saskatchewan Football League, Grow the Game camps in Indigenous communities, and the upcoming Inner City Football League.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders (6-7-1) will host the Ottawa Redblacks (8-5-1) on Saturday, Sept. 28 with kickoff slated for 3:00 p.m. EDT.
