The Symbol

The Story Behind the NO51 Symbol

Upon hearing "the joke" about Canada becoming the 51st state, the idea for the symbol was immediate –  51 inside a circle with a slash across the numbers. However, we wanted to avoid adding the typical “#1” imagery because of America's current obsession with winning and being "#1." In early January, we made the symbol as you see it today: The “1” is reshaped into an “I”, symbolizing a wall seen from its side — a block against annexation. The line, a hockey stick ready to cross-check the number 51 - a visual power play.

Draw the Symbol. 

We chose not to trademark NO51 because we want you to use the symbol, wherever you are in the world. Just one request: consider supporting our t-shirt sales if you can, so we can support Canadian businesses and non-profits in need.