Stag Special

Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW) is an annual event celebrated nationally across the Department of National Defence (DND)/ Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) during the third week of May.

First celebrated in 1992, IAW has evolved into an opportunity to honour, through collaborative learning and sharing of knowledge, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. IAW is also an opportunity to highlight the significant contributions that Indigenous members have made to the defence of Canada. Each year, IAW is celebrated under a new theme, which is chosen by the Defence Indigenous Advisory Team.

The 2023 edition of IAW is being held from May 23 to May 26 under the theme “Reconciliation is a path walked together.” This theme focuses on how reconciliation is a joint effort between Indigenous and non-Indigenous DND/CAF members and how all must collaborate to better understand the past and present to move forward together.

IAW 2023 aims to create safe spaces for all where they can gain a better understanding of Indigenous cultures. This edition will include many celebrations across the country, including CFB Shilo, where military and non-military members will be able to take part in activities such as traditional ceremonies — smudging, sweat lodge ceremony, prayers, etc. — feasts, workshops, and more.

Canadian Army (CA) Comd, Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples and proud member of the Huron-Wendat First Nation in Wendake LGen Jocelyn Paul said, “This week is a time of celebration — but also reflection — and learning. Designed to increase awareness and understanding of Indigenous Peoples, our cultures, histories, and contributions to Canada. The CAF and DND celebrate the richness of cultural diversity that First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples bring today. We are skilled professionals and leaders serving Canada at home and overseas. We bring unique knowledge and perspectives as part of a dynamic and increasingly diverse team.”

Here’s what’s coming up for the final day of IAW at CFB Shilo:

MAY 26

Flag raising of the DIAG flag 9 a.m.

Indigenous dancers and singers to perform 9:30 a.m.

Feast with traditional foods 11:15 a.m.

#IndigenousAwareness, #DefenceTeam, #Indigenous, #CAF, #Diversity

Four tipis were raised during the early part of CFB Shilo’s IAW activities, during a tipi-raising competition won by a team from 2PPCLI. Photos Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag