Hundreds gather for Indigenous Veterans Day in Winnipeg

It’s a historic wrong that must be made right.

Despite the fact they served their country with courage and honour, and in some cases made the ultimate sacrifice, Indigenous veterans faced discrimination both in the field of war and at home.

But now, in Manitoba, their heroic efforts in both World War I and II alongside other theatres of combat will be forever recognized, with hundreds gathering to pay their respects on Nov. 8, Indigenous Veterans Day, as the province officially passed legislation to write commemoration of the day into law.

“How we lead our lives, and freedoms we enjoy, can never be taken for granted,” said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew at the Neeganin Centre. “We always have to honour the people who have been defending those freedoms for generations.”

Recalling a visit he made to Juno Beach on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, Premier Kinew explained in a statement the recognition of these veterans is part of the province’s journey of reconciliation, and that all Manitobans must remember the sacrifices made by Indigenous veterans to ensure their courage and dedication to freedom is never forgotten.

“That’s just a powerful story to take time to remember today, which is that people stood up for all of us. All we cherish with the maple leaf and our country of Canada,” said the premier. “It also includes the Indigenous veterans that had to fight some battles here at home, too.”

Jerry Daniels, Grand Chief with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization, which represents 33 First Nations across Manitoba, was one of the many dignitaries in attendance to pay his respects, stressing it’s critical for veterans — past and present —to see their commitment recognized.

“It’s important for veterans to see that as well,” said Daniels. “And for those that are going to be part of the force that their contribution will be acknowledged by our society.”

“We weren’t even citizens till the 1960s as considered to vote, but we still did out part,” said Indigenous veteran Alexander Beardy, who served in 1975.

Laying a wreath as part of Friday’s ceremony, Beardy was handing out tobacco prayer ties to those in attendance, saying it is important for Indigenous veterans to come together.

“We were never alone side by side, there’s some guidance on your left and your right, that’s why how it was, they protect you, and you protect each other,” he said.

According to Veterans Affairs Canada, Indigenous soldiers have played critical rolls in numerous battles with more than 7,000 making contributions in World War I and World War II alone.