Arms of James Rupert Tibachimú Norquay
Arms of James Rupert Tibachimú Norquay
Blazon
Per fess Azure and Vert overall on a fess Argent a First Nations Sacred Pipe bowl to the dexter Or in chief a representation of the constellation termed Little Dipper of seven mullets Argent issuant in base a pile Gules fimbriated Argent;
Symbolism
The Little Dipper and Pole Star allude to the night sky. The ceremonial or sacred pipe honours Mr. Norquay’s rank as Pipe Carrier, a title bestowed on him by the late Indigenous elder Dorothy Maquabeak Francis in 1989. The name Norquay, which means “field or pasture of the North”, is represented by the green base. The red pile symbolizes a native symbol suggesting the Red Road, meaning our life or “earth walk”.
Crest of James Rupert Tibachimú Norquay
Blazon
A demi coyote Gules gorged with a collar of prairie crocus flowers holding in its dexter paw an eagle feather proper;
Symbolism
The “ceinture fléchée” in place of the mantling refers to Mr. Norquay’s Métis heritage. The shaman headdress represents his knowledge in healing techniques. The red coyote symbolizes the Grandfather Coyote, a spirit known for his wisdom and teachings of Indigenous ways. His collar of crocus flowers is the floral emblem of Manitoba and refers to Mr. Norquay’s birthplace. The quill held in the coyote’s paw alludes both to Mr. Norquay’s internationally known work as a calligrapher and, as well, to the nearly half century of his work as a writer and journalist.
Motto of James Rupert Tibachimú Norquay
Blazon
NUNC EGO TE EDUCO EX TENEBRIS;
Symbolism
This Latin phrase means "Now I lead thee out of darkness".
