emerge_logo In the year 2000, the 50th Anniversary of Mental Health Week, CMHA introduced the "Emerging into Light" symbol to help identify the importance of resilience and recovery in mental health and to provide people who care about mental illness with a method of self identifying. To date, more than 35,000 pins have been distributed and more than 3,000 t-shirts and sweatshirts bearing the symbol have been sold. During Mental Health Week, in Parliament and in Legislatures throughout the land, our nation's leaders have worn this symbol of respect for people who experience mental illness.

The Emerging Into Light Symbol

The image is the original artwork of Jennifer Osborn, a consumer and young woman of considerable artistic talent. She has recently returned to work after a period of recurrent illness. Jennifer created this image for us, as a donation, because she wanted to share her story through art. Jennifer worked closely with CMHA National's design firm to create an image that would be distinct, simple and convey the dignity of our ongoing battle against mental illness.

The symbol is larger than any one organization. It has become a personal badge of pride for people who truly care about mental health and illness issues. By adopting the Emerging into Light symbol, we are bringing mental illness out of the dark ages and into our community. We are no longer hiding.