November 8 marks National Indigenous Veterans Day, when we honour and remember the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis veterans who have served and continue to serve Canada.
The day recognizes the significant contributions and sacrifices Indigenous Peoples have made throughout Canada’s military history, from wartime service to peacekeeping missions around the world. It is also an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the vital role Indigenous veterans have played in protecting our country and advancing its peacekeeping legacy.
According to Veterans Affairs Canada, it is estimated that more than 12,000 Indigenous Peoples served during the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. Their service, along with that of Indigenous members serving today, continues to make a lasting impact on Canada’s Armed Forces and communities.
Today, approximately 3% of serving Canadian Armed Forces Regular Force and Primary Reserve members identify as Indigenous. Indigenous Peoples also continue to serve in significant numbers through the Canadian Rangers, where they represent more than 27% of members.
As we continue our journey of reconciliation, it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the courage, service, and achievements of Indigenous veterans. Their stories and sacrifices remain an enduring part of Canada’s history and strengthen our collective understanding and commitment to reconciliation and remembrance.
Several monuments and commemorative sites across Canada honour Indigenous veterans, including:
Events and Ceremonies
- Called to Action: From Remembrance to Reconciliation – Canadian War Museum | Ottawa, Ont.
- Indigenous Veterans Day Ceremony | Victoria, B.C.
- Indigenous Veterans Day Event | Kamloops, B.C.
- Indigenous Veterans Day Ceremony | Vancouver, B.C.
- Red River Métis Veterans Department hosts Indigenous Veterans Day Ceremony | Winnipeg. Man.
- Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre – Indigenous Veterans Ceremony | Halifax, N.S.
Monuments
- National Aboriginal Veterans Monument | Ottawa, Ont.
- Sergeant Tommy Prince Memorial | Winnipeg, Man.
- Squamish Nation Cenotaph | Vancouver, B.C.
- Beacon Hill Park Story Pole | Victoria, B.C.
If you are near one of these sites or attending a local ceremony, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the service and sacrifice of Indigenous veterans and their lasting contributions to Canada.
Learn more by visiting Veterans Affairs Canada’s Indigenous Veterans page.
