The Story of the Zonta Emblem

What appears to be the letter "Z" is actually the Sioux symbol for "ray of light," "sunshine" or "flash of radiance"--and so by extension, "inspiration."

This Sioux symbol means "to band together for a purpose" or "to stand together"--in a word, "loyalty." With loyalty, individual members band together into clubs, clubs into districts and districts into Zonta International.

This is the Sioux way of saying "to carry together." Carrying together is a most important ingredient for the accomplishment of Zonta's purpose: to work for the advancement of women worldwide through a global fellowship of business executives and professionals.

The symbolism of the square is not exclusively Sioux, nor is it exclusively Native American. It perhaps dates back even further than all of these other symbols in its representation of "honesty" and "trust.”

This is the Sioux symbol for "shelter." Zonta's many service projects are a shelter for those in need. This symbol therefore lends itself importantly in significance and design, embodying Zonta's aims and aspirations.women worldwide.

This symbol--composed of many symbols--became Zonta's emblem signifying a radiant group of successful business executives and professionals who are loyal, honest, trustworthy and inspired to advance the status of

During the 1996-1998 Biennium the Zonta International Board voted to have the words "Zonta International" incorporated into the emblem to standardize its appearance and enhance recognition of Zonta International throughout the world.