On Friday, November 8, community members gathered at the Portage Legion to honour Indigenous veterans who served in Canada's military. The event, a blend of remembrance and celebration, was marked by speeches, music, and a strong sense of community. It brought together members of the Métis, First Nations, and Inuit communities, as well as local dignitaries, to reflect on the sacrifices made by these veterans and the continued fight for recognition and respect.
David Chartrand, President of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF), was among the notable speakers. He emphasized the historical significance of Indigenous involvement in Canada's military efforts.
"People sometimes ask why there is a need for an Indigenous veterans’ ceremony," Chartrand said, before recalling the important role First Nations men played in both World Wars. "Indigenous soldiers were sought after by Canada for their skills as hunters and trackers, yet upon their return, many were met with disdain and neglect by their own country."
Chartrand shared a moving memory of his visit to Europe, where the graves of Indigenous soldiers are meticulously cared for.
"Europe has never forgotten us, while our country did forget us," he remarked. His words reflected the enduring pride many Indigenous veterans feel, knowing that their contributions are honoured abroad, even if not always recognized at home.
Alongside Chartrand, other notable speakers included Will Goodon, Minister of Housing and Property Management for the MMF, and Robert Loiselle, MLA for St. Boniface. Both emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices of veterans, not only those who died but also those who returned home broken by the trauma of war. Goodon, reflecting on his recent visit to Vimy Ridge, spoke about the deep personal connection he felt walking in the footsteps of his ancestors.
"We must remember why we went to war," he said, urging the youth to understand the significance of these sacrifices and to carry forward the lessons of history.
Loiselle, whose family includes a World War II veteran, echoed these sentiments. As the grandson of a veteran, he stressed the importance of ceremonies like this one in fostering reconciliation and understanding.
"The Indigenous peoples of this country have always had Manitoba and Canada in their hearts," he said. Loiselle also took a moment to reflect on the resilience of the Métis people, noting that despite centuries of persecution, the community continues to thrive and contribute to the nation.
The event was a reminder of the long road to reconciliation. Many Indigenous veterans faced challenges both during and after their service, often struggling with a lack of support from government institutions. Chartrand spoke about his long-standing efforts to secure an apology and settlement for Métis veterans, which was finally achieved in 2019.
"It was a long battle, but we fought for these veterans who gave so much."
The ceremony also served as an opportunity for younger generations to learn about the sacrifices made by their ancestors. John Fleury, Minister of Métis Employment & Training with the MMF and a former military service member, shared his experience of serving in the military for over four years.
"The camaraderie you build with fellow soldiers is unmatched. It gives you a sense of purpose and direction that stays with you for life."
Fleury also highlighted the importance of recognizing the contributions of Métis, First Nations, and Inuit veterans, particularly in the context of Canada’s broader history of Indigenous struggle.
"It’s wonderful to see non-Indigenous communities beginning to understand the true picture of what these soldiers went through. We're not alone anymore. We are part of the community."
The ceremony also featured music and dance, with a lively performance of Métis fiddle music and clogging, adding a cultural touch to the reflective event. For many attendees, this combination of celebration and remembrance is a hallmark of Métis traditions, where joy and sorrow often coexist.
As the ceremony came to a close, the message was clear. While the sacrifices of Indigenous veterans have far too often been overlooked, the community is reclaiming its rightful place in history. For those who attended, the event was both a solemn tribute and a reminder of the importance of collective memory.
As Chartrand movingly stated,
"All veterans want is to be remembered and honoured for their service and today, that's exactly what we did."