Toronto Raptors unveil new logo for Indigenous Heritage game
The Toronto Raptors have unveiled a new specialty logo ahead of their upcoming annual Indigenous Heritage game.
Ahead of their contest on January 6 against the Milwaukee Bucks, the Raptors have partnered with local artist Luke Swinson to create a new logo for the team to include on apparel and throughout Scotiabank Arena.
“This opportunity means so much to me. Representing what’s important to me and my community through such an iconic and recognizable logo is incredible,” said Swinson. “Growing up, seeing this kind of representation would have filled me with such pride and inspiration and I hope to share that feeling with Indigenous youth of today.”
Swinson is a visual artist with Anishinaabe roots and a member of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation from Kitchener, Ontario.
What does the new Raptors logo represent?
The logo “showcases the happiness experienced by two Indigenous people playing the game of basketball,” as per a release.
The logo also features other symbols such as a setting sun, a feather symbolizing honour, wisdom, strength, and closeness to the Creator, and the four sacred medicines of tobacco, sage, cedar, and sweetgrass.
Multiple Indigenous community groups have been invited to attend the game.
The game will feature a special halftime performance incorporating Madison Noon, an Indigenous member of the North Side Crew, the Raptors’ official dance pack. The Game’s 50/50 lottery supports youth facing barriers in Ontario through organizations like ENAGB, which focuses on “providing cultural, employment, life skills, holistic wellness, and recreational opportunities to youth ages 12-29.”
Apparel featuring the logo is now live at Real Sports and can be picked up online or at the in-arena location while supplies last.
- You might also like:
- Quickley predicts much-needed "change" on way for Toronto Raptors