Bringing together 12 Indigenous nations to affirm their identity
FNQLEDC - First Nations identification
Frank Polson is an Algonquin artist from the community of Long Point in Témiscamingue. Inspired by the Woodland style, he uses vivid colors and symbolic forms to express spirituality and the deep connection between humans, animals and nature. His works are recognized across Canada for their narrative power and cultural roots.
We supported the FNQLEDC in the creation of Identification Premières Nations (ID1N), an official brand designed to protect Aboriginal identity and promote the presence of First Nations in the marketplace. Faced with the growing challenges of identity fraud, this initiative brought together 12 nations to design a unifying symbol, the fruit of a participatory strategy and design.
We wanted to create a simple name: ID1N. ID for identification, and 1N for First Nation.
The original bear created by Frank Polson.
Through close collaboration with the community,
we conducted participatory workshops to define
the ID1N experience, value proposition and vision
business. Visual identity takes shape with the imprint
of a bear, created by Algonquin artist Frank Polson,
representing courage, respect and protection. This symbol
becomes the emblem of an official identification system,
guaranteeing product authenticity
and native services.
An Innu poet from Ekuanitshit, Rita Mestokosho's writings express the memory, spirituality and strength of her people. The ID1N manifesto she penned carries this voice of protection, transmission and universal dignity. Photo : Christine Hamel
The bear is a symbol of strength, healing and resilience in First Nations traditions. Beyond its power, it is recognized for the fierce protection it gives to its cubs, recalling the role of guardian and guide.
In ID1N, the bear embodies this dual essence : the protective force and bond of identity that crosses generations. Combined with a simple, universal name, it becomes a landmark that speaks to all cultures, while remaining deeply rooted in First Nations values. Photo: KWE!
Video manifesto by our long-time friend Martin Laporte. He went out to meet women pickers, capturing their gestures, their know-how and the deep bond they share with the land.
The grand unveiling of ID1N took place at the Grand Cercle Économique des Peuples Autochtones in Montreal, in a spirit of gathering and recognition. Presented at the heart of the event, ID1N stood as a symbol of identity, protection and transmission, a powerful moment that ended with a warm ovation from the assembly.
Application of the logo on products.
The appropriation of the symbol goes beyond recognition to become a source of pride. Photo : KWE!
Sébastien, accompanied by Emmanuel Bochud, Martin Laporte, Frank Polson, Rita Mestokosho, Black Bear & The Halluci Nation, and members of the CDEPNQL, at the Grand Cercle économique des Peuples autochtones.
The symbol also becomes a conversational and mobilizing tool. Here, part of the pledge tower that collects the names of people who endorse the movement.
We also supported the organization in the conceptualization of 1NDEX, an Aboriginal business network aimed at strengthening economic ties between entrepreneurs and communities. This project marks a turning point in the affirmation of Aboriginal identity, anchoring a collective vision and inviting society to take concrete steps towards reconciliation.
Client
FNQLEDC - Emmanuel Bochud
Artist
Frank Polson
Design and copywriting
Rita Mestokosho
Videography & photography
Martin Laporte
Web development
Asban - Steve O'Bomsawin
Music
Black Bear & The Halluci Nation
In collaboration with : Women gatherers, from yesterday to tomorrow; First Nations entrepreneurs; Community economic development officers; Elected women and Chiefs of theAFNQL - AFNQL
