Indigenous Canadian Veterans have played an integral role in the nation's military history, yet their contributions and sacrifices have often gone unrecognized and underappreciated. For centuries, Indigenous peoples across Canada have answered the call to defend their lands, allies, and the principles of freedom and justice.

It is estimated that 7,000 First Nations People served in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War; an unknown number of Métis, Inuit and non-Status Indians also served. However, it was not until 1995, fifty years after the Second World War, that Indigenous Peoples were allowed to lay Remembrance Day wreaths at the National War Memorial to remember and honour their dead comrades.

Despite the sacrifices and bravery Indigenous Veterans exemplified, they often returned home to face continued systemic inequality and the ongoing struggle to have their rights and contributions recognized. It wasn't until the 1990s that significant efforts were made to address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Veterans, including recognition programs, tributes, and the establishment of the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument.

Their resilience, courage, and commitment to the ideals of honour and duty serve as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit of Indigenous peoples throughout Canada's history.

In today's episode, we are sharing a conversation we had with Renee Charbonneau about the Veterans Memorial Guardian as well as a couple of stories highlighting the lives of the many inspiring Indigenous Canadian Veterans.

To learn more about the Veterans Memorial Gardens & Interpretive Centre, Click HERE