Full Breakdown
Bernese Bear's Coat of Arms: Tradition Prevails Over Modern Sensibilities
3/6/2026, 7:45:20 PM
Decision on the Bernese Bear's Representation
The cantonal government of Bern has confirmed that the bear on its coat of arms will continue to display its red penis, maintaining a tradition that dates back at least 600 years. This decision follows a query from Liberal Green parliamentarian Thomas Brönnimann, who suggested that the bear be depicted without its masculine attributes to better represent the entire population. He also proposed changing the bear's orientation from its traditional backward stance to a forward-facing position as a symbol of progress.
Historical Context of the Bear's Depiction
The Bernese bear has been a prominent symbol of the canton since the 15th century, consistently depicted with a red phallus. The cantonal government emphasized the importance of this historical representation, stating that the bear has almost always been illustrated running from right to left on seals and early coins. The government rejected Brönnimann's proposals, asserting that the bear's traditional depiction is reasonable and should remain unchanged.
Official Statements on the Decision
In its response, the cantonal government articulated that conducting an online survey regarding the bear's appearance would not yield representative results and would lack informative value. The government underscored the significance of tradition in the bear's representation, asserting that it reflects the historical identity of the canton.
Criticism and Opposition
Brönnimann's suggestions highlight a growing discourse on the relevance of traditional symbols in contemporary society. Critics argue that the bear's depiction could be seen as exclusionary and not reflective of modern values. However, the cantonal government maintains that the historical significance of the bear outweighs these concerns.
Broader Implications
The decision to retain the bear's traditional representation may resonate with similar discussions across Switzerland regarding the balance between historical traditions and evolving societal values. This case reflects a broader tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to contemporary sensibilities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The bear has a tradition that goes back at least 600 years and has been represented in this way since the 15th century, it said.” — Bernese Cantonal Government
- “In its view, such a survey would not be representative and would have little informative value.” — Bernese Cantonal Government
The cantonal government's ruling indicates a commitment to historical continuity, suggesting that while societal norms may evolve, certain traditions remain steadfast in the face of modern critiques.
