Canada’s Indigenous Cultures at the Heart of Canadian Armed Forces’ Indigenous Awareness Week Celebrations
News Release
May 25, 2017 – Ottawa – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Canadian Army hosted a commemorative event at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa today, in celebration of Indigenous Awareness Week from May 23 to 26. The festivities explored the theme of “Honouring the Traditional Ways,” which invited members of the Defence Team to look at ways in which they can weave Indigenous history, traditions and teachings into their lives and recognize the valuable contribution of Indigenous people to the Canadian Armed Forces.
This signature occasion featured a variety of guests and activities, including a prominent storyteller, Mr. Daniel Richer, a Métis dance performance by Prairie Fire, a display of Indigenous artefacts, and demonstrations by traditional artisans. Similar events are taking place at Canadian Armed Forces and Department of National Defence establishments across Canada throughout the week, to celebrate the Indigenous people of Canada, past and present, and the many Indigenous traditions and cultures that enrich the mosaic of our country.
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Quotes
“We are delighted to celebrate the culture, history and contributions of the Indigenous people of this land during Indigenous Awareness Week. Maintaining inclusivity and respect for all members within the Canadian Armed Forces is central to our success as an organization. Standing strong, proud and ready as a unified team enables us to better serve Canadians and meet ever more complex challenges at home and abroad.”
— Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk, Commander Canadian Army and Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples
Quick Facts
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The Defence Team engages Indigenous people across the country in a dialogue that highlights the rich cultural diversity, history and contributions that Indigenous people bring to Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces, highlighting the common ethos that the Defence community shares with them.
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This is the first commemorative event hosted by Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk, Commander Canadian Army, as new Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples. Lieutenant-General Wynnyk took over the role from Lieutenant-General Marquis Hainse, former Commander Canadian Army, in July 2016.
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The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces Eagle Staff was presented to Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk during the commemorative event in Ottawa on May 25, 2017. The Eagle Staff is a travelling symbol of unity among Indigenous people within the Defence Team, representing traditional Indigenous cultures and clans, as well as traditional belief in spiritual entities, healing and reverence for the Creator and all life. This “reinvigoration” allows the Staff’s meaning to be recognized by current and future generations.
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The Canadian Armed Forces supports a number of initiatives designed to help the military population reflect the diversity of Canada’s population (4.3% of Canadians identify as Indigenous). These initiatives include Indigenous youth development programs and outreach efforts in communities across Canada. Indigenous people currently make up approximately 2.7% of the military and 3.1% of the civilian Defence Team populations.
Associated Links
- Canadian Armed Forces Indigenous Programs
- Indigenous Peoples in the Canadian Armed Forces
- The Canadian Army Fosters an Inclusive Work Environment for All
- The Sacred Tradition of the Eagle Staff
- The Defence Indigenous Advisory Group Celebrates 20 Years of Accomplishment
- Master Warrant Officer Stan Mercredi – A Proud Carrier of Indigenous Tradition
- Canadian Army website
- Canadian Army Facebook
- Canadian Army Twitter
- Canadian Army YouTube
- Canadian Army Flickr
Contacts
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
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