About Lions Clubs International
Founded in Chicago, Illinois, USA in 1917 by insurance agent Melvin Jones and others,
Lions Clubs International has grown dramatically over the years. Lions are recognized
worldwide for their services to the blind and the visually impaired. This service began
when Helen Keller challenged the Lions to
become her "knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness" during the
association's 1925 international convention. The association is both non-political and
non-sectarian.
The club motto is ... We Serve
The Name
The proper name of our organization is "The International Association
of Lions Clubs." Many Lions, however, prefer to use the shorter form of
"Lions Clubs International."
The Emblem
Throughout the world, Lions are recognized by the emblem they wear on
their lapels. It consists of a gold letter "L" on a circular purple field.
Bordering this is a circular gold area with two lion profiles at either side facing
away from the center. The word, "Lions" appears at the top, and
"International" at the bottom. Symbolically the lions face both the past
and the future - proud of the past and confident of the future. You should wear the
emblem with pride.
The Motto
The motto of every Lion is simply "We Serve." What better
way to express the true mission of Lionism?
The Slogan
The slogan of the association is "Liberty, Intelligence,
Our Nations Safety."
Official Colors
The royal colors of purple and gold were selected as the official color
when the association was organized in 1917. Purple stands for loyalty to friends and
to one's self, and for integrity of mind and heart. Gold symbolizes sincerity of
purpose, liberty in judgment, purity in life and generosity in mind, heart and purse
toward humanity. |
