Today, November 8 is National Indigenous Veterans Day. This is an opportunity to recognize the military service and sacrifices made by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. This day of acknowledgement was established in 1994.

More than 12,000 Indigenous Peoples served in the First and Second World Wars, as well as the Korean War. This commitment spans over 200 years of military services.

Honouring Contributions

  • The National Aboriginal Veterans Monument stands proudly in Ottawa. A sculpture of a large eagle watches over the images of four men and women, representing the diversity of Indigenous Peoples. A wolf, bear, bison and caribou represent values held by many Indigenous Peoples and guard all four corners. You can learn more about the monument here.
  • Remembrance ceremonies are held at the monument for Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8.

Today and always, it’s important to remember and honour the brave sacrifices and achievements of those who have fought for freedom and peace. Learn more here.

How will you mark National Indigenous Veterans Day? Let us know: @wrdsb on Twitter or @wr_dsb on Instagram. Be sure to use the hashtags #IndigenousVeteransDay #CanadaRemembers.