Each year on November 8, the City of Toronto joins Canadians across the country in recognizing Indigenous Veterans Day, honouring the service, sacrifice and contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples to Canada’s military history. Indigenous Peoples played a significant role in Canada’s war efforts, serving with distinction despite facing systemic barriers and discrimination both during and after their service
It is estimated that more than 12,000 Indigenous people served in the Canadian Armed Forces during the 20th century, with more than 500 making the ultimate sacrifice. Some of their stories are captured in our Veteran Memories pages. Today many Indigenous people continue to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and on military and peacekeeping operations around the world, continuing the proud legacy of service established by generations before them.
Beaded poppies honour and commemorate the service and sacrifice of Indigenous soldiers while reflecting Indigenous culture and heritage. In Anishinaabemowin, Mnidoomnensag (beads), means “small spirit berries.” Beading has long been a way of telling stories, and it carries special significance because Indigenous people were historically prohibited from practising their culture and traditions.
Wearing a beaded poppy is an act of remembrance and respect for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous veterans, recognizing their shared service, values and history. While beaded poppies honour all who have served, they also draw attention to the contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous people in times of war.
The City of Toronto commemorated Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8, 2023 with the unveiling of two permanent panels in the Hall of Memory at Toronto City Hall, recognizing the historic and ongoing contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit in defending Canada and safeguarding peace around the world.
The first panel honours those who stood to defend York during the Battle of York on April 27, 1813, and recognizes the Treaty 13 and Williams Treaties First Nations that were present: Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Beausoleil First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, and Chippewas of Rama First Nation.
The second panel features the symbol used by the Defence Indigenous Advisory Group, representing Indigenous personnel serving in Canada’s military.
Designed by Toronto City Hall architect Viljo Revell, the Hall of Memory is a place of reflection that commemorates Toronto’s military history through the crests and symbols of Toronto- based units that have served Canada from the 1800’s to the present day.
While they had stood as equals in service, Indigenous veterans often did not enjoy the same rights in Canada. Many were denied the right to vote, and some were unable to access the veterans’ benefits available to non-Indigenous servicemen and women. For decades, many Indigenous veterans became the nation’s “forgotten soldiers”.
Although the federal government formally apologized in 2003 and apologized to Metis veterans in 2019, providing compensation to many affected veterans, numerous Indigenous veterans and their families did not receive the benefits or entitlements they were owed and, in some cases, continue to be overlooked.
Many Indigenous veterans also faced discrimination after the way. They were banned from Royal Canadian Legion halls where veterans gathered for fellowship and support, and where information about post-war benefits was often shared. Instead, Indigenous veterans were directed to government agents who didn’t always act in their best interests. In some cases. Indigenous people were even required to relinquish their status rights to serve.
Veterans Affairs Canada provides additional information on the long and proud history of Indigenous military service to Canada, and on the ongoing efforts to recognize and honour the contributions and sacrifices of First Nations, Inuit and Métis veterans.