The Quebec government recently announced a significant change to the province’s official coat of arms by removing the British crown symbol. This decision was revealed by Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette and French Language Minister Jean-François Roberge, emphasizing the autonomy of the Quebec nation.
The existing coat of arms features a crown, three gold fleurs-de-lis, a gold lion (which represents the British Crown), and three green maple leaves. While the lion will remain, the Tudor-style crown, added in 1939 along with the provincial motto “Je me souviens” (I remember), is being eliminated.
Initially granted by Queen Victoria in 1868, the province’s official emblem is now undergoing changes to reflect the removal of the British crown. This alteration will first be seen on official correspondence and later on medals presented by the lieutenant-governor. However, emblems on state buildings or furniture will remain unchanged for heritage conservation reasons.
