The federal government will remove all religious symbols from the Canadian crown that sits on the Royal Coat of Arms in a new design that will be unveiled when Prime Minister Trudeau attends the coronation of King Charles III in London on May 6, according to a report.
A depiction of the St. Edward’s Crown, which twice appears in the coat of arms, topped by a golden cross, will be replaced by a yet-unreleased design created by the Canadian Heraldic Authority (CHA), according to the National Post.
The CHA is responsible for creating heraldic emblems such as arms, flags, and badges, under the authority of the governor general.
According to sources that spoke to the Post, the symbols including all crosses and fleurs-de-lys will be replaced by maple leaves, snowflakes, and stars. Although its origin is unclear, the fleur-de-lys carries Catholic connotations.
Queen Elizabeth IIs signature shows below the Canadian coat of arms and below that is the signature of former Attorney General Jean Chretien. These names are at the top centre of a proclamation giving Canada independence from Britain in Ottawa, Ont. April 17, 1982. CP PHOTO/Andy Clark
The Epoch Times reached out to Governor General Mary Simon’s office for comment on the reported changes to the Coat of Arms but did not immediately hear back.
Trudeau will attend King Charles’ coronation at Westminster Abbey along with a number of dignitaries from around the world. The prime minister’s itinerary for the trip has not yet been released.
Five RCMP members will also attend the ceremony and ride at the head of the king’s escort. Several dozen Canadian Armed Forces members are expected to partake in the coronation procession.
The Canadian Press contributed to this report.
