'Rape and honey' slogan dropped by Tisdale, Sask.

'Rape and honey' slogan dropped by Tisdale, Sask.

The town of Tisdale, Sask., has decided to ditch its much-lampooned slogan: "The land of rape and honey."

The phrase has been in use for 60 years and has long adorned the town's highway welcome sign.

The word rape in the slogan refers to rapeseed, a once-popular crop that has largely been supplanted in Saskatchewan by canola.

However, many have pointed out the obvious second meaning, saying that — fair or not — it evokes sexual assault.

The town of 3,200 has been grappling with a possible change since the spring, even surveying residents over three months to find out their thoughts.

Officials said 57 per cent of respondents were in favour of rebranding, while 36 per cent opposed changing the slogan.

On Tuesday night, council voted it was time for a new brand.

What hasn't been announced is what will replace 'Land of rape and honey.' The town is working on a new brand without "rape" in the slogan.

It's not known if "honey" will survive, although in a news release, the town noted that honey production around Tisdale has also been in decline for a number of years.