National Indigenous Veterans Day
November 8th is National Indigenous Veterans Day, an annual celebration of First Nations, Inuit and Métis veterans that happens across what is colonially known as Canada. Indigenous peoples in Canada have a long and significant history of contributions to military efforts that have taken place around the world. We must also recognize the resilience and sacrifices made by Indigenous people and communities as they faced, and continue to face, ongoing systemic challenges and exclusion from Canadian society. Given the complex context of colonization on this land, Indigenous military contributions are especially meaningful.
Thousands of Indigenous people, the true number of which remains unknown, have served as active Canadian Armed Forces members in every war and conflict over the past 200 years. In the First World War approximately 4,000 Indigenous people enlisted to fight overseas, about 1 in 3 of able-bodied Indigenous men of age, even though most lived in remote communities. (Government of Canada, n.d.). In the Second World War over 200 Indigenous soldiers died in action (or afterwards due to injuries), and 18 earned decorations for brave actions in battle. They fought in every major battle and campaign including the Dieppe landings and Normandy Invasion. In the Korean War, while the Canadian Armed Forces recorded 73 Indigenous men had enlisted, it is estimated that this number was significantly underreported and several hundred actually served in battlefields on land and at sea. In more recent history, Indigenous Canadians have been active members of the war in Afghanistan from 2001-2014, and a self-identification survey from 2019 showed that there were approximately 2742 Indigenous people survey in the armed forces at that time. (Government of Canada, n.d.).
As social workers, we must strive to stay actively committed to meaningful truth and reconciliation. One tangible way that we can do this, is my continuously expanding our knowledge and understanding of Indigenous history in Canada and integrating these learnings into how we support and uplift Indigenous people and voices. Below are two books recommended by Calgary Public Library that highlight different stories and perspectives of Indigenous veterans involved in military efforts for over 100 years as well as a short documentary about Cree Code Talkers of WW2.
Book: Invisible Women, WWII Aboriginal Servicewomen in Canada
By Grace Poulin
Available to loan through Calgary Public Library
During WWII, Aboriginal women volunteered from across Canada, from urban and from rural areas including Reserve communities. There has been absolutely no scholarly writing about the Aboriginal female experience. Often mistaken for people of European descent, the heritage of Aboriginal women remained invisible while they served in Canada's WWII military as though no one expected to find an enlisted Aboriginal woman. Of the eighteen unrecognized Aboriginal women who participated in this project, fifteen enlisted in the CWAC (Canadian Women's Army Corps), two in the RCAF WD (Royal Canadian Air Force Women's Division) and one in the WRCNS (Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service).
Book: When the Spirits Dance
By Larry Loyle
Available to loan through Calgary Public Library or to purchase HERE through Massy Books, an Indigenous owned and operated bookstore located in Vancouver (shipping available).
“When Lawrence's father goes overseas with the Canadian Army during the Second World War, the young Cree boy struggles to grow up while wrestling with the meaning of war. With Papa gone, Mama raises the children alone. Traditional foods such as wild meat and fish are scarce, and many other foods are rationed. Angry about the changes and confused about the future, Lawrence misses his father and his teachings about their natural way of life. When army runaways threaten the family, Lawrence's courage and knowledge of traditional skills are called upon to keep them safe. With guidance from his grandfather and encouragement from his grandmother, Lawrence faces his challenges, becomes wiser and stronger, and earns the respect of his Elders.”
Documentary: Cree Code Talker
Watch online for free here!
This documentary looks at the role of Canadian Cree code talker Charles ‘Checker’ Tomkins during the Second World War. Code talkers were First Nations soldiers in World War II who relayed messages in Cree that could not be decoded if intercepted.
Indigenous Veterans Day Events in Alberta
Another way that we can actively participate in truth and reconciliation is to attend Indigenous Veterans Day events, which are distinct from Remembrance Day events. These are times to honour Indigenous veterans, both past and present, and reflect on the incredible contributions and sacrifices Indigenous people have made, and continue to make, for Canada.
Smoky Lake
Where: Métis Crossing, 17339 Victoria Trail
When: Friday November 8th 2024
This event honours and celebrates the contributions of Indigenous Veterans who have served in missions across Canada and around the world in times of war, conflict, and peace. The day will begin with an Opening Ceremony, followed by a heartfelt tribute to our Veterans and a Moment of Reflection. A wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Veterans Monument at Métis Crossing, symbolizing our deep respect and gratitude. The event will conclude with a Closing Ceremony and a Community Gathering, where we come together to celebrate and remember.
Click here for more details!
Grand Prairie
Where: Ole Smokes Coffee, 10003 92 St #701
When: Friday November 8th 2024
This is a special military/Indigenous ceremony that brings the Military Family and the Indigenous Veteran's family together. The gathering begins with coffee and bison, elk and venison breakfast sandwiches from Ole Smokes Coffee at 9:30 AM. The ceremony starting at 10:45 and ending at approximately 11:30 AM. The ceremony features a drummer/singer, a fiddler and weather permitting a piper and various Indigenous, civic and local leaders and elders.
Click here for more details!
Calgary
Where: 200 Memorial Drive NW
When: Friday November 8th 2024
This Sunset Flag Lowering Ceremony is dedicated to honouring Indigenous Veterans at The Field of Crosses. After the ceremony, members of the public are welcome to walk amongst the crosses all night long and into the morning dawn. Click here for more details!