by Susan Campbell Picture Aruba, and shades of turquoise sea and sparkling white sand come to mind. But these aren’t the only colors to reflect the heart and soul of its people. Fiery red, burnt gold, piercing blue and white decorate Aruba’s coat of arms, created in 1955. The emblem comprises four main images inter sected by a white cross representing faith and devotion. In the upper left quadrant, the aloe plant signifies the island’s first source of prosperity, while the upper right shows Hooiberg rising from the sea. Below, a gear rep resents industry and a handshake demonstrates friendly relations with other nations. The emblem is cra dled on laurel leaves symbolizing peace and friendship and crowned with a red lion that represents power and generosity. 16
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Unveiled on 18 March 1976, the island’s national flag also represents many things dear to its people. The blue background portrays hope, sea and sky. The red of the star reflects love of the land; its points stand for the four corners of the compass. The
star’s white outline depicts pristine white beaches and the purity of Aruban hearts. Two yellow stripes pay tribute to the sun and industry, and their parallel position represents the island’s independence from The Netherlands and other islands but its willingness to retain close ties. These lines from the Aruban nat ional anthem say it all. “Your beaches so much admired, with palm trees all adorned, your coat of arms and flag, the symbols of our pride.” Arubans celebrate the true c olors of their heart with island-wide revelry each year on National Anthem and Flag Day, 18 March. Photo by Pierre Arsenault