An Iroquois story tells us that a long time ago people were disrespectful toward animals, the earth and each other. So the Creator took the sun away. For four days the robin sang strongly and clearly, calling for the sun to return. The Creator took pity and returned the light. Those same robins are heard before sunrise, calling for the light of a new dawn.

The Positive Living North robin has a heart at its centre representing life, love and compassion. The green symbolizes healing and open communication. The red ribbon is the symbol for the HIV/AIDS movement. The rainbow wings signify inclusion of the full spectrum of humanity and enable the bird to fly with the promise of hope and freedom.

Glenn Patterson is an artist, drum-maker and film maker. Glenn synthesized the themes from three drawings that were submitted by people who are part of Positive Living North. About the process of creating it, Glenn said, with a smile, "I like the way it flew together."