Quebec to remove the British crown from its official coat of arms, citing identity and autonomy

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published January 25, 2026

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The Quebec government announced it will remove the British crown from the province's official coat of arms, framing the move as a reaffirmation of Quebec's autonomy and an update to national symbols to better reflect modern Quebec society.

Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette said most Quebecers feel no attachment to the British monarchy and reject its symbols, adding the change is meant to make Quebec institutions and symbols more aligned with the population and the province's identity.

According to reporting, the change is expected to take effect on February 4, 2026, and will be phased into certain official correspondence and later into medals awarded by the lieutenant-governor. The government also said emblems on state buildings or furniture will not be altered for heritage conservation reasons.

The province notes the coat of arms dates back to 1868, while the Tudor-style crown was added in 1939 alongside Quebec's motto Je me souviens