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Indigenous Reconciliation Gathering builds understanding

August 13, 2026 – Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:45

By Captain Ken Jacobson, 17 Wing Winnipeg Public Affairs

Image gallery

  • A Canadian Armed Forces member in camouflage uniform stands at a podium speaking into a microphone during an event. Behind the podium, another person wearing traditional regalia stands near several flags and ceremonial decorations inside a tented venue.
  • An individual wearing a commemorative medallion stands at a podium speaking into a microphone during a ceremony. Several flags are displayed in the background, and uniformed military personnel stand nearby on a stage inside a tented venue.
  • Two military members stand beside two children under a tent, helping them try on aviation-style helmets. One child is already wearing a helmet while the other is having a helmet adjusted.
  • A person in a Canadian Armed Forces camouflage uniform stands at a display table showcasing handcrafted items, including decorated birch bark baskets, containers, and artwork. Two vendors sit behind the table in a gymnasium-like venue, with numerous handmade pieces arranged on black and white tablecloths.
  • A performer in vibrant traditional regalia dances on an outdoor stage. The outfit features bright purple, green, yellow, and turquoise ribbons, beadwork, feathered adornments, and decorative footwear. Flags and stage equipment are visible in the background, while the performer is captured mid-movement with arms extended and ribbons flowing.
  • An individual sits at a table with hands clasped in front of a shallow ceremonial bowl containing a small flame. A microphone is held nearby by another participant, while several flags and part of a traditional regalia garment are visible in the background inside a tented venue. A small animal skull and other ceremonial items rest on the table beside the bowl.
  • Three dancers perform on a stage beneath an event tent, wearing coordinated blue, white, and black ruffled costumes with matching footwear. The dancers are captured mid-step with skirts lifted as part of the routine. Audience members seated at tables watch from the background.
  • Several participants sit in a circle around a large drum during a cultural performance inside a tented venue. Two Canadian Armed Forces members in camouflage uniforms hold drumsticks and strike the drum in unison, while other participants seated around the drum also take part. Flags, event signage, and additional attendees are visible in the background.

On June 20, Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Winnipeg welcomed First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners, serving members, veterans, and community leaders for its first Indigenous Reconciliation Gathering, one of the largest public reconciliation events ever hosted at a Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) base.

Throughout the day, attendees experienced Indigenous and military cultures through music, ceremony, and performances as well as food and artisan displays. The event encouraged First Nations, Métis, and Inuit partners to share traditions, knowledge, and perspectives while learning from CAF members and the broader community.

In her opening remarks, former Base Commander Colonel Jody Hanson highlighted the importance of understanding and relationship-building. “Today is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultures, perspectives and contributions,” said Col Hanson. “It is also a chance to celebrate the strength of these communities and to honour those who continue to carry forward their traditions, knowledge, and leadership. Through shared experiences—whether through discussion, performance, or ceremony—we take important steps toward building trust and mutual respect.”

The gathering reflected a partnership between Indigenous organizations, community leaders, and the Defence community. Rather than being led solely by the CAF, it was developed collaboratively with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO), Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), and Manitoba Inuit Association (MIA) to create an opportunity of shared culture, knowledge, and experiences.

Hosted by MMF Minister of Housing and Property Management, Will Goodon, the gathering brought together Indigenous leaders, elected officials, military representatives, and community members to celebrate culture, strengthen relationships, and foster meaningful dialogue.

Among those in attendance were the Honourable Anita R. Neville, Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba; the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs; Grand Chief Jerry Daniels of SCO; Vice-President Andrew Carrier of MMF; and Ms. Gayle Gruben, Chief Executive Officer of MIA, among other distinguished guests.

The Indigenous Reconciliation Gathering reflects the CAF’s commitment to strengthen relationships with Indigenous peoples and advance reconciliation through meaningful engagement. It also aligns with the spirit of Call to Action 57 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which calls upon governments to provide education and training on Indigenous history, culture, and the legacy of residential schools for public servants.

For the Defence community, reconciliation is an ongoing responsibility built through learning, listening, and partnership. By creating a shared space where cultures, experiences, and perspectives could come together, the gathering demonstrated how Indigenous partners and the Defence community can work together to build trust, strengthen relationships, and foster a more inclusive and respectful Canada.

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2026-08-13