Legacy of Service, Honouring Indigenous Veterans
Thunder Bay, ON – On Remembrance Day, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) recognizes, honours and celebrates all those who have served and continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. We pay special tribute to First Nations, Inuit and Métis women and men who courageously enlisted to defend their homelands, communities and future generations, often despite the discrimination and inequities they faced during their service and upon returning home.
Indigenous Veterans Day, observed annually on November 8, was first commemorated in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1994. It established an important opportunity to recognize the specific contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous veterans whose stories had too often been overlooked.
It is estimated that more than 12,000 Indigenous people served in Canada's major military conflicts throughout the 20th century, including the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War and subsequent peacekeeping missions. At least 500 Indigenous service members lost their lives. Indigenous people also contributed on the home front, sharing their resources, knowledge, skills and traditional territories in support of Canada's military efforts.
Despite their extraordinary sacrifices, many Indigenous veterans returned home to a country that did not recognize or honour their service equally. Many were denied the same benefits, recognition and opportunities afforded to other veterans. Their experiences are an important part of Canada's history and a reminder that remembrance must include truth, recognition and reconciliation.
Today, Indigenous peoples continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces. According to the Department of National Defence, as of March 31, 2026, Indigenous people represented 2.7 per cent of the Regular Force and Primary Reserve, while 27.7 per cent of Canadian Rangers self-identified as First Nations, Inuit, or Métis.
“At a time when the world is witnessing a rise in hate, attacks on human rights, anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination, it is even more important that we come together as a community. We must never forget the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms, our communities and future generations. The world is our community, our Nations and our hearts.” Cora McGuire-Cyrette CEO, ONWA
ONWA will join community members at Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay) to honour Indigenous veterans and all those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service.
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay), Fort William First Nation
The ceremony will begin at the cenotaph on the mountain, followed by a community luncheon at the Fort William First Nation Community Centre at 12:00 p.m.
ONWA will also lay wreaths at the Port Arthur Cenotaph in Waverley Park.
As we remember those who served, ONWA encourages all Canadians to learn about the contributions of Indigenous veterans, acknowledge the inequities they endured, and ensure that their stories and sacrifices are carried forward for generations to come.
Learn More:
About Indigenous Veterans: https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/remembrance/people-and-stories/indigenous-veterans
Remembrance Day Ceremonies: https://www.legion.ca/remembrance/remembrance-day/remembrance-day-ceremonies
Indigenous Programs in the Canadian Armed Forces: https://forces.ca/en/programs-for-indigenous-peoples/
In unity and respect, ONWA honours all those who served, those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and the families and communities who continue to carry their legacy.
For more information and media inquiries, contact:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca
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