Let's talk about symbols

Brian Sankarsingh wants to talk about the symbolism of symbols in society...try saying that really fast!

Photo by Austin Chan on Unsplash

Symbols are everywhere. They fill our lives, whether we notice them or not. Flags, logos, religious icons, and even gestures like a thumbs-up all carry meaning. But what happens when we forget the weight of these symbols? More importantly what happens when we choose to ignore what the people who use them are telling us? When we stop thinking about what they stand for, we risk losing a critical understanding of our shared identity and history.

Symbols condense complex ideas into simple forms. A heart means love. A cross might represent faith. A nation’s flag embodies its people, values, and history. These symbols guide our thinking, can evoke powerful emotions, and they help us communicate when words fall short. They aren’t just decorations; they’re shortcuts to meaning and indications of intent.

When you see a peace sign or an upraised clenched fist, it speaks volumes without a single word. These symbols hold power because of the shared understanding behind them. Without that understanding, the symbol becomes empty. And an empty symbol can be dangerous or divisive. Forgetting – or ignoring - what a symbol stands for isn’t just an act of negligence. It can have real consequences for how we relate to each other as a society. Symbols help bind us together. A nation’s flag, for example, creates a sense of unity. When people no longer connect with the meaning behind a flag, they may feel disconnected from their community. We must be aware that an ignored or forgotten symbol can take on new, unintended meanings. This can distort its purpose and lead to conflict. For instance, a gesture once used to promote peace might get co-opted as a sign of hate. Many symbols carry lessons from history. Forgetting their significance means forgetting the events and struggles that shaped them. This can leave you unaware of important context.

Symbols of hate, like swastikas or Confederate flags, carry deep and painful
”hi-stories.” When these symbols are displayed without understanding or reflection, they perpetuate harm. Some argue that forgetting their original intent robs them of power. But erasing their history doesn’t undo their impact.

On the other hand, symbols of good—like olive branches, rainbows, or even a red cross—serve to inspire hope and solidarity. Yet even these can lose their power if we don’t actively reinforce their meaning. Think about how commercial use of a peace symbol might dilute its anti-war message.

We don’t need to be historians to keep the meaning of symbols alive. We just need to stay mindful and intentional. We must take the time to understand where a symbol came from. What does it stand for? Who created it? Why does it matter? Then we should help educate others by sharing our knowledge with friends, family, and your community. Conversations about symbols can uncover surprising insights. We should always challenge the misuse of such symbols by speaking up. A simple correction can go a long way in maintaining its integrity. Personally, before we display a symbol, we should think about what it means and why you’re using it. Symbols can often spark deep emotional responses. Use them as a starting point for discussions about values, history, and culture.

At a societal level, symbols play a role in shaping our collective consciousness. They influence how we see ourselves and each other. A forgotten or misused symbol can fracture this shared understanding. Take, for instance, a statue of a historical figure. To some, it may represent heritage. To others, it might symbolize oppression. Ignoring these perspectives doesn’t make the conflict go away. Instead, it deepens divisions. Addressing the meaning behind symbols fosters dialogue and mutual respect. Similarly, positive symbols can strengthen the civic psyche. A community mural of interlocking hands can symbolize unity and remind people of their shared humanity. But without ongoing effort, these images risk becoming mere decoration, stripped of their deeper message. Forgetting the significance of symbols isn’t inevitable. It’s a choice—one you can resist through awareness and action. Symbols are tools for understanding, connection, and progress. When you remember their meaning, you ensure they remain a force for good rather than a source of misunderstanding or harm.

By paying attention to the symbols around you, you take an active role in shaping your world. Whether it’s a flag, a logo, or a gesture, every symbol has something to say. It’s up to you to listen. It will be up to you to react.

Bio: BRIAN SANKARSINGH is an award-winning poet and author. He is a Trinidadian-born Canadian immigrant who has published several books of poetry on a wide range of social and historical themes including racism, colonialism, and enslavement. Sankarsingh artfully blends prose and poetry into his storytelling creating an eclectic mix with both genres. This unique approach is sure to provide something for everyone.

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