A Symbol of Pride

The CSC crest has a long and distinguished history. In use for 30 years, it appears on all CSC material.

Crest Signification

The crown signifies the support of our monarch; the maple leaf, our country.

With its six-pointed star, sunburst and green ring, the crest represents our priorities, our mission and our values.

The gold key symbolizes our custodial responsibilities: keeping offenders secure and safe.

The torch stands for training, education and parole: helping offenders become law-abiding citizens.

The motto—Futura Recipere—means "to grasp or reach out to the future."

In 1979, Commissioner Don Yeomans called for a new crest to represent the new service. CSC chose one of many designs, some of which are still on display at the Penitentiary Museum in Kingston, Ontario. Later that year, Queen Elizabeth II approved the design, and Solicitor General Lawrence unveiled the crest at the official opening of the Kent Institution near Vancouver.