On Monday, November 11th we commemorate Remembrance Day by reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who have served and the many that have lost their lives.
The horrors of war can leave veterans with medical, emotional and psychological trauma that impacts upon families and communities. Our government has a duty to take care of our veterans, as they have served our country and protected our freedom.
This includes Canada’s Indigenous veterans. We are all treaty people. And we honour the service of Indigenous Veterans.
Friday, November 8th is National Aboriginal Veterans Day. As Canadians, we have for too long forgotten and ignored the sacrifices of the over 12,000 First Nations, Metis and Inuit people who fought for Canada in the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Korean War. It is estimated that 300 or more Indigenous people died in these conflicts. National Aboriginal Veterans Day was first commemorated in Winnipeg in 1994.
We respect and honour the sacrifice of all those who have served. All deserve our support and solidarity. Please consider attending a ceremony in your community.
In Solidarity,
Marianne Hladun,
Prairies Regional Executive Vice-President