Symbolism of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario's Coat of Arms

The Shield of Arms

Green and gold are the principal colours in the shield of arms of the province.

The Mace is the traditional symbol of authority of the Speaker. Shown on the left is the current Mace. On the right side is the original Mace from the time of the first parliament in 1792. The crossed Maces are joined by the shield of arms of Ontario. They are contained within an embattled border symbolizing the physical location of the Assembly.

The Crest

The coronet (small crown) on the green and gold wreath represents national and provincial loyalties. The coronet rim is studded with the provincial gemstone - the amethyst. The griffin is an ancient symbol of justice and equity. The griffin holds a calumet, a Native pipe, honouring Ontario's aboriginal peoples. The calumet symbolizes the meeting and spirit of discussion which the First Peoples believe accompanies the use of the pipe. The calumet was a central part of the great seal of Upper Canada (1792-1841).

The Supporters

The deer represent the natural riches of the province. The Loyalist coronets at their necks honour the original European settlers in Ontario who brought with them the parliamentary form of government. The Royal Crowns, left - 1992, right - 1792, recognize the parliamentary bicentennial and recall our heritage as a constitutional monarchy. They were granted as a special honour by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, on the recommendation of the Governor General.

The Base

The green represents the lawns of Queen's Park, the site of the Legislative Building. The maple leaves are for Canada, the trilliums for Ontario and the white roses for York (now Toronto), the provincial capital.

The Motto

"Audi Alteram Partem" is one of a series of Latin phrases carved in the Legislative Chamber of the Legislative Building. It challenges Members of Provincial Parliament to "Hear the Other Side".