Beyond Remembrance: The meaning of Indigenous Veterans Day

November 6, 2025 - Defence Stories

By Raquel Loth

Every year on November 8, Indigenous Veterans Day is recognized across Canada. Established in 1994, it serves not only as a time to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Indigenous Veterans, but also as a moment to acknowledge the historical injustices many faced during and after their military service.

To understand why Indigenous Veterans Day is observed in addition to Remembrance Day, we must first understand the history of Indigenous military service within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

For generations, Indigenous Peoples have played a vital role in Canada’s military efforts, with involvement dating back to the War of 1812 and the South African War (1899–1902). Their commitment continued through the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War, and into modern-day operations. During the First World War, more than 4,000 Indigenous Peoples served, with some communities sending every eligible man between the ages of 20 and 35. In the Second World War, over 3,000 First Nations members served, alongside Inuit and Métis individuals, most within Canadian Army operations. It is estimated that more than 12,000 members served in the 20th century, with 500 making the ultimate sacrifice.

Beyond contributing to the CAF workforce, Indigenous soldiers brought skills passed down through generations in their communities. Abilities such as marksmanship, tracking, and terrain awareness were proved invaluable on the front lines. In the Second World War, their impact extended beyond combat: Indigenous languages, such as Cree, were used to encode military communications, helping protect vital information from enemy interception.

It goes without saying that Indigenous Veterans have made invaluable contributions to the CAF. They stood shoulder to shoulder with non-Indigenous members, demonstrating unwavering bravery and loyalty. Yet, despite their service, many returned to a country that failed to honour them equally. They were denied the same benefits, land grants, and reintegration support provided to non-Indigenous Veterans.

While the culture of the CAF has evolved over time, we must continue to recognize and acknowledge the inequities that our Indigenous Veterans endured. This day allows us to share stories of heroism and resilience, not only in the face of enemies on the battlefield, but also in confronting the systemic injustices they experienced upon returning home.

This is why Indigenous Veterans Day is such an important occasion. It honours the contributions of those who did not receive adequate recognition at the time. Indigenous Veterans Day is for them, but also for those who came after.

In recognition of Indigenous Veterans Day, CAF members and Canadians are invited to participate in commemorative ceremonies, read the stories of Indigenous Veterans, or simply reflect on their legacy, so that they may never be forgotten.