A new Indigenous logo for the Waterloo Warriors officially launched on Tuesday, February 4, in collaboration with Waterloo Athletics and Recreation and the Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR). A celebratory gathering took place at the Student Life Centre to unveil the new artwork and select merchandise featuring the new logo is now available at the W Store. In the spring term, the artwork, along with a territorial acknowledgement, will also be visible at the entrance of the Physical Activities Complex and the Columbia Icefield.
The logo was designed by Indigenous artist, Kyle Joedicke, a Cayuga Turtle Clan member of the Six Nations of The Grand River, who focused on incorporating the University of Waterloo's culture of collaboration and problem-solving. The approach to developing the new Indigenous logo was genuinely collaborative and embodied several of the University's values, including thinking differently and working together.
The artistic challenge for Joedicke was to strike a balance between redesigning and Indigenizing an iconic and recognizable logo such as the Warrior's logo. He incorporates traditional and cultural aspects of Woodland art while honouring the legacy of the original logo. The Indigenized logo was designed to promote visibility, recognition and respect for the contributions that Indigenous peoples have made in Canada, specifically within sports.
"This logo deals with one's strength physically, mentally and spiritually," Joedicke says. "It also speaks to what warrior mentality' means, and how that it isn't just a term used to describe bravery, or courageous acts, but also speaks to one's empathy, openness and compassion for their community."
The term warrior' has often been associated with harmful stereotypes of Indigenous Peoples, but Elder Myeengun Henry, Indigenous Knowledge Keeper at Waterloo who was closely involved with the project, explained that the true definition of a warrior is someone who leads from their heart.
"The new Indigenous logo carries a role of honour to the University, and I think those who wear that on their uniforms should be very proud," Elder Henry says. "A soldier is told what to do by his superiors, but a warrior' knows what to do from its heart."
Waterloo Warriors releases new Indigenous logo
Roly Webster, director of Athletics and Recreation, also worked closely with Elder Henry and OIR to make this new logo a reality. "The Warriors brand has been part of the community from admissions to convocation, and I think it provides a sense of belonging for all, that they're part of something bigger," Webster says. "My hope is that with the Indigenous version of this brand it provides the same for the Indigenous community - a sense of pride and a sense of belonging for all."
This project, which includes the design of a mural for the Athletics facilities, was generously sponsored by Rob Logan (BSc '82), a Waterloo alum, and his partner Darlene.
"Symbols are important, and Canada and Waterloo's strength comes from diversity, an inclusive spirit and the pursuit of knowledge," Logan says. "This prominent symbol is intended to support respect for and inclusion of Indigenous Peoples and communities through Waterloo at 100 (2057) and beyond."
10 per cent of the sales from the merchandise of the new logo will go to the Indigenous Student Development Fund, and an additional 10 per cent will go to the Warriors Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Fund in Athletics. For more information about this collection, please contact the W Store via email at wstore@uwaterloo.ca. For more information about decolonization, reconciliation and indigenization on campus, please visit the OIR website.
