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Canadian Games Themes: Vancouver 2010
The official emblem of the XXI Olympic Winter Games of 2010, in Vancouver, was presented to Canadians in April 2005.
The chosen emblem is a contemporary interpretation of the inukshuk, a structure of stacked rocks in human form. In the past, inuksuit were used as guideposts by the Inuit in Canada, who traveled across the vast ice- and snow-covered horizons of the North.
The inukshuk gradually became a symbol of friendship, hope and brotherly hospitality welcoming the people of the entire world. Here the emblem embodies Canada and its vast territories, friendship, hope, hospitality, energy and team spirit.
Named Ilanaaq, the emblem means friend in Inuktitut, the language of the Inuit. The traditional inukshuk was the result of a group effort, whose common goal was to hand down its heritage to future generations.
The rocks that are used to build the inukshuk are piled one on top of the other, and together they provide balance to the structure. The Ilanaaq is therefore based on mutual assistance and teamwork, just like the Games. This is the message of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
The inukshuk: The Inukshuk: A Symbol of Hope, Friendship and Brotherhood...
The physical environment of Canada is closely linked to the message of the emblem, which is composed of five brightly coloured rocks, each having a particular meaning.
The green and two shades of blue represent the oceans, forests, mountains, and islands that make up Canada. The red represents the maple leaf of the Canadian flag, and the gold represents the sunrises that paint the city skyline and the snow-capped peaks of the neighbouring mountains.
The emblem and its colours will certainly be associated with the official products of the Games, its publications, as well as the decoration of the city and Olympic sites.
To learn about the story of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games emblem, visit the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games’ (VANOC) Web site.
