The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs honours the contributions of First Nations veterans

Photo of a beaded poppy along with words Honouring First Nations Veterans on November 8

November 7, 2018

Treaty One Territory, Manitoba

alexpapineau

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Treaty One Territory, MBThe Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) joins First Nation citizens across the province to remember and honour our veterans on the eve of Indigenous Veterans Day.

“On November 8, Indigenous Veterans Day, we want to let First Nations veterans and members of the military know that we are thankful for their past and ongoing contributions of service,” said Grand Chief Arlen Dumas. “First Nations people have faced many obstacles and barriers to enlist in the military, yet when called to serve, our people continue to serve with pride and dedication and risk their lives to defend the values of peace and freedom at home and abroad. I encourage all Manitoba residents to join me in honouring First Nations veterans on November 8.”

More than 7,000 First Nations citizens served in the First and Second World Wars and the Korean War. First Nations peoples continue to contribute in today’s Canadian Armed Forces. Indigenous Veterans Day was first observed in 1994 to honour the contributions and sacrifices Indigenous people have made while serving in uniform.

Manitoba residents who want to honour the contributions of First Nations veterans can attend any of the following events:

  • November 8: Flag raising ceremony at City Hall Winnipeg, 510 Main Street, Winnipeg at 8 am. If you need information call 204.794.1133.
  • November 8: Ceremony and luncheon at the Aboriginal Centre of Winnipeg, 181 Higgins Avenue, at 10:30 am. If you need information call 204.989.8860.
  • November 11: Long Plain First Nation is hosting a Remembrance Day pow wow at the Keeshkemaqwah Conference and Gaming Centre on its urban reserve in Portage la Prairie—the grand entry is at 11 am. If you need information call 204.857.3530.

Long Plain pow wow poster