“Indigenous Veterans Day is a day to honor the bravery of Indigenous service members who have made unique contributions to Canada’s military forces. These veterans have sacrificed their own comfort and safety to fight for a better world, and it’s time for Canadians to recognize and celebrate their sacrifices.
The Contributions of Indigenous Veterans
One such veteran, Francine Young, served with the U.S. Army in both Afghanistan and Iraq. She described the bond that formed between her and her team as they endured dangerous conditions together. Young hopes that Canadians will honor Indigenous Veterans Day with the same reverence as they do for Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.
Despite their long service to the military, many Indigenous veterans faced racism and systemic barriers upon their return to civilian life. To address these concerns, Veterans Affairs Canada has signed a letter of understanding with the Assembly of First Nations to direct Indigenous veterans to available resources and support their transition back into civilian life.
Unique Perspectives
Debbie Eisan, an Indigenous veteran of the Royal Canadian Navy, echoes the sentiment of honoring the sacrifices made by Indigenous veterans. She emphasizes the need for Indigenous women veterans to be accorded the same respect as their male counterparts.
Sam Sutherland, a Mi’kmaw veteran who served with the Ukrainian military, shares a poignant perspective on serving in Ukraine, stating that being able to change someone’s life is worth more than any material possession. He emphasizes the importance of love and unity, especially in times of conflict, and the value of making a positive impact while we still can.
Conclusion
As Canadians, it’s important to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by Indigenous veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving their country. Indigenous Veterans Day is an opportunity to reflect on their bravery and the challenges they have faced, while also providing support and assistance to ensure a successful transition back into civilian life. These veterans have much to offer, and it’s crucial for us, as a society, to embrace and celebrate their contributions.”
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