Today, on Indigenous Veterans Day, we honor the countless Indigenous veterans who have served in the Canadian Armed Forces throughout history. Indigenous people across Canada have bravely fought in defense of our country, often overcoming discrimination and historical injustices.
According to the federal government, an estimated 4,000 Indigenous people served during the First World War, and more than 3,000 served during the Second World War. People from Indigenous communities also fought in the Korean and Afghan wars, and approximately 3,000 continue to serve in Canada’s armed services both domestically and overseas today.
Recognizing Indigenous military service in Canada
This year, we want to highlight the inspiring work of the Indigenous Veterans Initiative from the Last Post Fund.
This program provides Indigenous veterans with the recognition they deserve, offering grave markers for Indigenous soldiers and adding their names to the National Memorial Wall.
Through these acts of remembrance, we ensure that Indigenous veterans are honored and remembered and, in some small way, right the wrongs of the past that meant that Indigenous veterans had been left uncounted and unrecognised for their contributions in Canada’s armed services.
Advocating for Indigenous rights and inclusion
On this Indigenous Veterans Day, we commit to recognizing the unique challenges Indigenous veterans face after their service. The British Columbian Assembly of First Nations highlight the high rate of homelessness and unemployment many Indigenous veterans experience after retirement or leaving the services.
“It is urgent that we not only recognize their sacrifices but also take concrete actions to ensure their well-being and integration into our communities and the larger society…The unique structure and discipline they bring can profoundly benefit communities, fostering a sense of belonging for those who have dedicated years to being part of a team. By integrating these veterans into community roles, we not only honour their service but also enhance the resiliency and cohesion within our First Nations communities.” – British Columbia Assembly of First Nations
Honoring Indigenous veterans requires not only remembrance but also a renewed commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights, inclusion, and equity in Canada.
This is the balance that we are currently working towards through our Truth and Reconciliation Strategy based on partnerships, respect, opportunity and leadership.
Over this Remeberance weekend, please take the time to reflect and learn about Indigenous veterans in Canada. Some useful resources can be found below:
Honouring Indigenous Veterans Day 2024 – Base 31
BC Premier’s statement on Indigenous Veterans Day – Castlegar Source
Remberance Day and Veteran’s Week – Government of Canada
