Wapanohk Community School hosted a ceremony to commemorate National Aboriginal Veterans Day on Nov. 6, honouring the role which aboriginal soldiers have played in Canada’s military history.
Ron Cook, master of ceremonies, introduced the ceremony, and those present to represent the community. “We are assembled here today to honour the veterans, the okihcihtâw, the great hearts, who gave up themselves for our people, the men and the women who gave their present for our future.” The ceremony featured Cree and English renditions of “In Flanders Fields” by Ms. Alcock’s, Mrs. Dumas’s, and Ms. Moose’s class, as well as a Cree singing of “Amazing Grace” sung by Mr. White’s Grade 6 class.
The highlight of the ceremony was a video presentation prepared by Wapanohk students, recognizing the contribution of aboriginal soldiers in the conflicts over the past two centuries. The video recognized the role of First Nations not only in the world wars, but in conflicts often forgotten in Canadian memory, such as the 19th century Mahdist and Boer Wars. “The thousands of miles travelled by aboriginal soldiers make up a thousand memories, so many of which have been ignored or lost. Yet these are the details of our history, which we must remember.” The presentation was followed by a list of Northern Manitoban aboriginal veterans, accompanied by the anonymous poem “The Drum Beat.”
For some present, the ceremonies took on a more personal meaning, such as Jack Robinson, representing the Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre: “I just want to say to you young people, to learn and remember the past wars, because chances are, you have someone in your family tree who fought in one.” Robinson’s grandfather was among those honoured by the presentation’s list of servicemen. “It touched me when I saw his name come up.” Robinson’s grandson had also returned last year from a tour in Afghanistan.
City councillor Penny Byer also spoke of a long family history in the armed forces, including a niece. “When I look at this room, and I look at the names scrolled up on that presentation, those are people who gave their lives so that all of us, everyone here, can keep what we have, and make things better.”
Riel Beardy spoke for Niki Ashton: “A record 30 per cent of First Nations men eligible fought in World War I and II; many didn’t come back. Many returned to have their treaty rights revoked, and have fought for basic recognition with the Canadian government.” At the time, First Nations members were required to surrender their treaty rights to serve in the military, a sacrifice many First Nations men readily made.
Victoria Goden also spoke to thank those present on behalf of the Manitoba Metis Federation. Also present to pay their respects were Special Const. Rob Cleveland, school board chairperson Leslie Tucker and School District of Mystery Lake superintendent Jolene Brown, school board trustee Janet Braidy, and city manager Gary Ceppetelli.
