Canada observes National Indigenous Veterans Day
Canada observed National Indigenous Veterans Day on Nov. 8 with leaders across the country calling on Canadians to reflect on the contributions of Inuit, First Nations and Métis service members in the Armed Forces.
Today, we honour First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Veterans for their invaluable contributions to peace and security. We remember the sacrifices they made in service to Canada. And we stand with their loved ones and their communities. #CanadaRemembers https://t.co/cOw7kOl7oL
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 8, 2023
“Indigenous Peoples have historically faced unique challenges – from having to travel far from their communities to enlist, to overcoming language barriers, and adapting to cultural differences while in service to Canada,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Despite this, they demonstrated great courage to overcome these challenges on the frontlines and as skilled sharpshooters and trackers. The Government of Canada is working to ensure that all Indigenous service members, Veterans, and their families are equally supported and recognized for their service – because that is what they deserve.”
Canada’s Governor General Mary Simon said the day was a moment to remember the service members’ dedication to Canada:
On #IndigenousVeteransDay, we honour the service and sacrifice of the thousands of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to our country. pic.twitter.com/Yz01Nmj284
— Governor General of Canada (@GGCanada) November 8, 2023
“We are proud of these brave men and women”
Johannes Lampe, the president of the Nunatsiavut Government in the Atlantic Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, asked Beneficiaries of the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement to observe a moment of silence on both on Nov. 8 and on Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
“Despite being exempt from conscription, over 4,000 Indigenous men, including Labrador Inuit, enlisted in the First World War and over 300 died, and another 20,000 volunteered for service in the Second World War and over 200 died,” Lampe said.
“Many Indigenous people have served in conflicts since, and many more continue to serve today. We are proud of these brave men and women who helped shape this great country we live in, proud of the sacrifices they have made, and proud of the legacy they have left behind.”
Today is Indigenous Veterans Day, a day we recognize Indigenous contributions to military services. I want to recognize the Inuit, First Nations, and Métis who have served in missions across Canada and around the world in times of war, conflict, and peace. Lest we forget. pic.twitter.com/zJv3AirwSc
— Premier P.J. Akeeagok (@j_akeeagok) November 8, 2023
Inaugurated in Winnipeg, Manitoba
National Indigenous Veterans Day started in 1994 in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Over time, it was adopted in other provinces, and then nationally.
There are currently over 2,700 Indigenous members serving in the Canadian Armed Forces.
Comments, tips or story ideas? Contact Eilís at eilis.quinn(at)cbc.ca
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: ‘He’s finally being recognized’: Indigenous veterans honoured this week in N.W.T., CBC News
United States: Veterans from Indigenous Alaskan village have war stories archived online, Alaska Public Media
