Indigenous Awareness Week 2026: Statement from the Defence Team Co-Champions for Indigenous Peoples

Statement / May 15, 2026 / National Defence

Greetings, Pusu'l, Aaniin, Ainngai, Tawnshi.

Indigenous Awareness Week is a time for reflection, learning, and respect across the Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence.

It provides an opportunity to recognize the enduring strength, resilience, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Their histories and ongoing accomplishments are deeply woven into the fabric of our institutions.

The theme for 2026, “Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future,” invites us to reflect on the service and sacrifices of Indigenous Peoples, who have defended this land since long before Confederation and have continued to serve with distinction. This reflection fosters a deeper understanding of present realities and supports us in becoming better partners.

From the First and Second World Wars to current operations at home and abroad, Indigenous soldiers, sailors, and aviators have demonstrated extraordinary courage, leadership, and commitment to service—even when their contributions were not fully recognized.

Honouring the past also means acknowledging the difficult truths, including the impacts of colonization and the injustices experienced by Indigenous communities. Meaningful awareness demands that we listen to Indigenous voices and commit ourselves to learning and reconciliation—not just this week, but as an ongoing responsibility.

As we embrace the future, Indigenous Awareness Week encourages us to build an organization that is inclusive, respectful, and enriched by diverse worldviews, traditions, and knowledge. Indigenous cultures offer enduring lessons in leadership, stewardship of the land, community, and resilience—values closely aligned with military service. Creating space for Indigenous perspectives strengthens our institution and enhances our ability to serve Canada with integrity and unity.

Throughout this week, we strongly encourage everyone to participate in the educational activities, cultural events, and conversations taking place across the Defence Team. By centring Indigenous Peoples, these activities deepen understanding and foster mutual respect, helping to transform awareness into action and respect into enduring change.

Indigenous Awareness Week is a catalyst for beginning or deepening our individual and collective reconciliation journey. It reminds us of where we have been and helps shape where we are going. By honouring the past with an eye to the future, we reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation, and ensure we truly reflect the strength and diversity of the people we proudly serve.

Lieutenant-General Michael Wright, Commander Canadian Army, Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples and military co-chair of the Defence Team Indigenous Affairs Committee

Peter Hammerschmidt, Assistant Deputy Minister, Infrastructure and Environment, Defence Team Champion and civilian co-chair of the Defence Team Indigenous Affairs Committee