Sunday November 9, 2025 | VICTORIA, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Indigenous Veterans Day is recognized in Canada on November 8 each year.
First Nations, Inuit and Métis people in Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service to Canada including WWI (1914 to 1918), WWII (1939 to 1945) and the Korean War (1950 to 1953).
The Government of Canada says that “While exact statistics are difficult to determine, the rate of Indigenous participation in Canada’s military efforts over the years has been impressive”.
“These determined volunteers were often forced to overcome many challenges to serve in uniform, from learning a new language and adapting to cultural differences, to having to travel great distances from their remote communities just to enlist. The challenges they faced often extended to their post-service life. Many Indigenous war Veterans would not receive equal treatment compared to other Canadian Veterans,” as stated on the federal government’s Indigenous Veterans website.
“Many Indigenous men brought valuable skills with them when they joined the military. Patience, stealth and marksmanship were well-honed traits for those who had come from communities where hunting was a cornerstone of daily life,” the government says.
National Monument in Ottawa:
The National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa was unveiled by former Governor General Adrienne Clarkson on June 21, 2001.
The inscription reads:
TO ABORIGINAL WAR VETERANS IN CANADA AND TO THOSE THAT HAVE FALLEN This monument is raised in sacred and everlasting honour of the contributions of all Aboriginal Canadians in war and peacekeeping operations. Many thousands of Aboriginal people saw action and endured hardship in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. They served with honour and distinction in all branches of the service and in every rank and appointment from Private to Brigadier. They fought overseas to defend the sovereignty and liberty of allied nations, in addition to supporting the cause at home. Their dedication continues in peacekeeping operations in faraway lands. Their heroic acts earned many decorations for bravery as well as the respect and enduring friendship of their comrades in arms. Hundreds from across Canada gave fully of their lives so that all Canadians might know peace and inherit freedom. We who would follow in their path are humbled by the magnitude of their sacrifice and inspired by the depths of their resolve. We owe them a debt of gratitude we cannot soon hope to repay. Unveiled by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, C.C., C.M.M., C.D. Governor General of Canada and Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Forces on June 21, 2001, National Aboriginal Day.
This monument was made possible by the National Aboriginal Veterans Association and the generous donations of the Canadian people. Artist: Noel Lloyd Pinay.
BC Premier’s statement:
BC Premier David Eby issued a statement to mark Indigenous Veterans Day:
“On this day, we recognize the service of Indigenous veterans who today as in the past have protected democracy, defended freedom and helped to uphold peace.
“Canada’s story cannot be told without including Indigenous veterans, from fighting American invaders in the War of 1812 through both World Wars, the Korean War and the Gulf War, as well as in Afghanistan and other multinational missions, including peacekeeping.
“Many Indigenous war veterans faced discrimination during their service. Many also did not receive fair and equal treatment after their service compared to other veterans.
“On this sombre day of reflection, we remember those who never came home, as we recognize those forever changed by conflict and acknowledge the sacrifice of their service. We are forever grateful for their contributions. We also acknowledge and thank those who are currently serving.”
Royal BC Museum:
The Royal BC Museum’s page to recognize National Aboriginal Veterans Day features a photo of the National Memorial.
“It’s important to make a special note and acknowledgement of the Indigenous Nations’ contributions and sacrifices during these global conflicts and also Indigenous womens’, such as Mary Greyeyes, which have been overshadowed or overlooked altogether,” as stated on the Royal BC Museum’s National Aboriginal Veterans Day page.
