The LOCOG Faith Reference Group was established four years ago and has representatives from the nine faiths that make up the UK Interfaith Network. More specifically, these are Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, Zoroastrian, Jain and Bahia's.
In thinking about the pin badge, they were helpful and encouraging, and we talked about many ideas and possible designs. As always happens in such discussions, however, the thinking began to get complicated before too long!
So, back to basics. What did we want the pin badge to say and reflect? We wanted it to say that the faith communities are engaging with and serving the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We wanted it to reflect the diverse nature of London and the UK.
The rest was more
straightforward – the World Faiths,
portrayed in word and picture, alongside the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic
logos.
The leaders help unveil the badge inside the Velodrome.
The pin badge launch took place in the Velodrome and
was attended by the Archbishop of Canterbury and faith leaders and
representatives from all the other faiths. This was followed by a reception at
the LOCOG office and an opportunity for staff to meet the Archbishop and
other leaders.
I feel the badge is a real expression and celebration of
the faith communities' involvement in the London 2012 Games, and is something for us all to be proud of and unite behind.
