Statement by the Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples on National Indigenous Peoples Day

June 21, 2018 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

“Today, we shine a light on the culture, history and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. As the Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples, I would like to commemorate their significant contributions to the defence of our great nation.

“Over the generations, Indigenous Peoples and their communities have come together on June 21, the day of the summer solstice, to celebrate their culture and heritage. National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity to honour and showcase the diverse cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people across this land.

“First Nations, Inuit and Métis people are valued members of Canadian society and the defence community, undertaking challenging and rewarding jobs. They are part of a dynamic team of skilled professionals and leaders stationed across Canada and abroad.

“Indigenous Peoples make up approximately 2.7% (2018) of the Canadian Armed Forces and 3.1% (2017) of the civilian Defence Team populations. We are striving to increase these numbers over the years to come.

“The Defence Team engages Indigenous Peoples across the country in a dialogue that highlights the rich cultural diversity, history and contributions that Indigenous Peoples bring to the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces.

“As Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples, I encourage all Defence Team members to take part in the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations happening in their communities. Let us work together to ensure the Defence Team’s commitment to better reflect the rich diversity of Canada’s population within both the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence.”

Lieutenant-General Paul Wynnyk, CMM, MSM, CD
Commander Canadian Army and Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples

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Contacts

Directorate of Army Public Affairs
Canadian Army Headquarters
613-971-7119