Stag Special

Last week, the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) commemorated Indigenous Awareness Week.

This included activities at CFB Shilo, where four tipis were raised in a field adjacent to L25. The final day featured drumming and dancing, including a circle dance involving those who took in the morning event.

Indigenous Awareness Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions and rich cultures which Indigenous peoples bring to the National Defence community. In particular, we acknowledge and commemorate the many current and former Indigenous members of the CAF, who have defended Canada with courage and valour.

“During Indigenous Awareness Week, we celebrate the histories, cultures, traditions, and languages of Indigenous peoples, and recommit to walking the path of reconciliation. As Minister of National Defence, I extend my sincere gratitude to all Indigenous members of the Defence community for their contributions to the security of our country and reaffirm my commitment to building a more inclusive Defence Team. As we continue to heed the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about the rich stories and unique traditions of Indigenous peoples — this week, and all year round,” offered Defence Minister Anita Anand.

Added CDS Gen Wayne Eyre, “Indigenous Awareness Week is a time to learn and gain a better understanding of Indigenous cultures while recognizing the contribution brought by Indigenous communities to the military. I strongly believe that the path towards Reconciliation is paved with education and is one that must be walked together. I encourage all members of the CAF, Indigenous or not, to keep on walking towards a more inclusive and diverse Defence Team.

The theme of this year’s Indigenous Awareness Week was “Reconciliation is a path walked together.”

This theme reminds us reconciliation is a joint effort between Indigenous peoples and all Canadians — and that we all have a role to play. This year’s events aimed to highlight that collaborative education is key in our journey towards reconciliation.

Throughout last week, DND/CAF held events across the country to commemorate Indigenous Awareness Week and highlight reconciliation efforts.

Beside what CFB Shilo hosted, the CAF’s main event was held May 25 in Valcartier, Quebec. Indigenous and non-Indigenous DND/CAF members, as well as community members, came together to share Indigenous knowledge and traditions. The event included Indigenous ceremonies — such as smudging — a traditional meal, Indigenous-themed workshops, and speeches.

“Indigenous Awareness Week is a time to appreciate the many contributions made by Indigenous Peoples to the defence of this country. It is a story that began more than 400 years ago, to which new chapters are being added every day. I want to reiterate to you today that there is a bright future ahead for Indigenous Peoples in uniform,” said Canadian Army (CA) Comd LGen Jocelyn Paul, who is also Defence Team Champion for Indigenous Peoples.

It was a hive of activity on the final day of CFB Shilo’s Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW), with a circle dance held to include those who took in the drum circle and Indigenous traditional dancing. Photos Jules Xavier/Shilo Stag