Each November, Canadians gather to honour the service and sacrifice of veterans who have defended our country. In the days leading up to Remembrance Day, we also observe National Indigenous Veterans Day (Nov. 8)—a day to acknowledge the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous veterans who have served, and continue to serve, this land with courage and dedication.
For Rhea Dupuis, Director of Indigenous Relations at Okanagan College and a member of the Penticton Indian Band, honouring Indigenous veterans is personal and profound. “My grandfather was a Korean War veteran,” she shares, “But he didn’t make it home, and I never got to meet him.” To honour him and other veterans, Rhea and members of her community will gather on November 8 for a ceremony to hold up Indigenous veterans, past and present.
Among those they will recognize is Penticton Indian Band member swʔw̓ikist, also known as Corporal Justin George. Three years ago, Corporal George was invited to stand vigil at the National Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa, marking a moment of deep pride for his community. “It was historic for us,” says Rhea. “He was the first Indigenous member of the Canadian Armed Forces from our community to be invited to participate in the ceremony in Ottawa. We’re all so proud.”
While Indigenous peoples have served in times of war and peace for over 200 years, that service has often been overlooked, with Indigenous veterans unrecognized in broader national commemorations. The creation of National Indigenous Veterans Day, first recognized in 1994, seeks to address these historical oversights and create space for a dedicated time to recognize the thousands of Indigenous soldiers who served.
As we pay tribute to all veterans on November 11, let us hold a special place in our hearts for Indigenous veterans whose legacy is woven into our shared history. Flags at OC campuses will be lowered in honour of Remembrance Day and National Indigenous Veterans Day from Nov. 8 to Nov.11. Let us remember, honour, and recognize the ongoing contributions and resilience of all who have served.