The Independent recognises “I Love Manchester” as a defiant sign being used by a city mourning bombing victims.
Seen all over the city, from billboards to motorways, it has once again emerged as the city faces tough times.
The logo, which abbreviates “love” to a heart image, originated with the ‘I Love MCR’ organisation, which was launched after the 2011 riots in the city.
It is based upon the “I love New York” logo, which was itself a product of a pop-art influenced marketing campaign.
I Love MCR describe their logo as “an incorruptible symbol of civic pride”.
This window @HuntersMCR this morning was full of houses for sale. Now it's showing strength and love for #Manchester #WeLoveMCR pic.twitter.com/9MG6Ov4HRS
— I Love Manchester (@ILoveMCR) May 23, 2017
The group’s campaign and logo was in use long before the attack, and T-shirts emblazoned with the logo have been pictured on celebrities and sports people associated with the city.
But following the bombing, the symbol gained global visibility.
Newly elected mayor Andy Burnham changed his social media profile to pictures of the “I love Manchester” symbol, like many other citizens.
It was also seen on signs held by members of the public at the vigil which took place.
Read the full Independent article here