There is a renewed push in Edmonton to bring back the iconic slogan “City of Champions.” The initiative is spearheaded by Doug Griffiths, president and CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, who believes it’s time for the city to reclaim its identity as a place of greatness and success. Griffiths pointed out the recent success of the Edmonton Oilers in the Stanley Cup playoffs as a reminder of the city’s vibrancy and achievement, coupled with other positive developments such as the return of the Canadian Finals Rodeo and various events downtown. He emphasized that Edmonton is a city where champions invest, live, raise families, and solve problems, making it fitting for the slogan to be reinstated.
The “City of Champions” moniker was originally adopted in the late 1980s to commemorate the community’s response to the Black Friday tornado in 1987 and the city’s sporting achievements in the 1980s. However, in 2015, Edmonton City Council voted to discontinue the slogan, with then-mayor Don Iveson citing a “post-tagline era.” Despite this decision, there have been previous attempts to revive the slogan, including a volunteer group’s efforts in 2016 to bring it back to city council’s attention. Griffiths hopes that the current push will lead to a conversation among Edmontonians and ultimately result in city council approving the reintroduction of the “City of Champions” slogan.
Griffiths highlighted Edmonton’s vibrant community, active event scene, and ongoing investments in various sectors, including post-secondary education and healthcare. He emphasized the city’s leadership in numerous areas and the potential for further growth and success. According to Griffiths, events such as the return of the Canadian Finals Rodeo and the initiatives of the Downtown Business Association showcase Edmonton as an event city with a lot to offer. Griffiths believes that by reinstating the “City of Champions” slogan, Edmonton can embrace its identity as a city of excellence and inspiration.
The push to bring back the “City of Champions” slogan reflects a desire to celebrate Edmonton’s achievements and promote a sense of pride and unity among residents. Griffiths’ vision for the slogan reinstatement is rooted in recognizing the city’s resilience, success, and ongoing growth. By acknowledging Edmonton as a city of champions through and through, he aims to reignite a spirit of inspiration and community pride. The slogan represents a call to action for Edmontonians to embrace their city’s accomplishments and potential, fostering a culture of excellence and achievement.
The debate surrounding the “City of Champions” slogan reflects broader discussions about Edmonton’s identity and aspirations for the future. While some view the slogan as a nostalgic relic of past achievements, others see it as a powerful symbol of the city’s ongoing evolution and success. As Edmonton continues to grow and innovate, the reintroduction of the slogan may serve as a unifying force that honors the city’s past while looking towards a bright and promising future. Ultimately, the decision to bring back the slogan will not only shape Edmonton’s public image but also influence how residents perceive and engage with their community.
