Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario — Today, on National Indigenous Veterans Day, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak and First Nations Veterans Council (FNVC) Chairperson, Veteran Percy Joe, honour the significant contributions and sacrifices of First Nations Veterans and peacekeepers.
“First Nations people have a long and proud tradition of military service—they fought for Canada and for a future of equal rights and freedom. First Nations Veterans, peacekeepers, and their families have made tremendous sacrifices for Canada in both war and peace,” said AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “In a large record of responses, First Nation people from across Canada voluntarily enlisted in the Canadian Military during the First and Second World Wars, participating in other major military conflicts and peacekeeping missions. The contributions and dedication of First Nations soldiers to serve their country while also overcoming unique cultural challenges and racial prejudice have gone unnoticed to this day. Today, we remember and honour their service contributions to Canada’s military efforts and are committed to keeping the memories of those we have lost alive.”
“On National Indigenous Veterans Day, we not only recognize and honour First Nations Veterans for their invaluable sacrifices but also the historical injustices and systemic barriers they have faced, from coercive recruitment practices to promises of land, rights, and benefits post-service—promises that often went unfulfilled,” said Veteran Percy Joe, Chairperson of the FNVC. “First Nations Veterans deserve recognition and support that respects our cultural traditions. It is critical that we work to eliminate the systemic barriers affecting Veterans and peacekeepers during and after their service, to ensure they receive equitable support.”
“It is essential that our Veterans and peacekeepers receive the support and recognition they deserve. Today, we lift them up for their courage, skills, and wisdom, and we call on all levels of government to fulfill their responsibilities, ensuring that they are properly supported and that their contributions are recognized not just today, but every day,” concluded AFN National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak.
