UM honours Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day
Shauna Mulligan, Métis PhD student in Indigenous Studies and Army Reserve Veteran, encourages everyone to honour veterans 365 days a year
As we observe National Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices made by Canadian veterans and Indigenous Peoples who served, often in the face of immense adversity. In a time when global conflict continues to impact lives, these days remind us of the enduring significance of sacrifice and resilience. Through stories, ceremonies, and moments of silence, we honour those who served, recognizing the freedoms we enjoy and the histories that have shaped them.
Shauna Mulligan is a Métis PhD student in Indigenous Studies and Army Reserve Veteran, having served from 1995 to 2002 as a Medical Assistant. In the above video, she shares her family’s rich history of military service. A legacy, she says, runs to the very core of who she is as a person.
Enlisting in the armed forces right after high school was not just a career choice for Mulligan; it was a tribute to her ancestors and their unwavering commitment to protecting people’s rights and freedom.
Mulligan wants to honour the significance of Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, by urging us all to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice while highlighting the importance of supporting veterans and those who continue to serve all year round.
After a 20-year career in health care, Mulligan is currently working with Indigenous Veterans by attending ceremonies including commemoration events, sweat lodges, veteran ceremonies, and namings.
Indigenous Veterans Day Event
On November 8, 2024, the UM community attended an observance of Indigenous Veterans Day, a time to recognize and honour the significant contributions of Indigenous Soldiers in Canada’s military history.
“Honouring Indigenous Veterans Day means recognizing the courage and resilience of Indigenous people who served this land, often without equal rights,” says Gabrielle Desrochers, Events and Conference Supervisor, Indigenous Engagement and Communications at UM. “By lifting their stories, we ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.”
The Office of the Vice-President (Indigenous) was privileged to welcome Elder and Indigenous Veteran Michael Monias, who shared personal and poignant insights from his life and military service. Michael led a discussion on the enduring significance of the iconic poem In Flanders Fields, and asked audience members to reflect on its meaning more than 100 years after the end of World War I. This powerful piece, written more than a century ago by Canadian poet, soldier and physician John McCrae, continues to serve as a touching reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers.
Audience members participated in thoughtful dialogue in response to Michael’s questions, which helped inspire a deeper understanding of the profound impact of Indigenous veterans on both history and contemporary society. As the group reflected on the enduring significance of the poem, they also explored its relevance today, and considered how the lessons of courage, resilience and remembrance continue to resonate in our lives.
Together, let us remember and celebrate the legacy of Indigenous veterans, ensuring their stories and sacrifices are never forgotten.
Remembrance Day, November 11
There are many ways to make Remembrance Day meaningful. The Royal Canadian Legion invites Canadians to attend Remembrance Day Ceremonies across the country. Find your local Remembrance Day Ceremony on the Legion’s website.
If you are not attending a ceremony, consider finding ways to remember on your own. Take two minutes of silence to pause and reflect on what this day means – to recognize the sacrifices of Canadian veterans, to honour the memory of those who have fallen, and to commemorate the courage of Canadians who are still serving.
Veteran Affairs Canada also suggests other ways to remember and show gratitude on Remembrance Day and beyond.
Reflecting on war and conflict can be difficult. If you are struggling during this time, reach out for help at the links below. The solemn nature of this day doesn’t mean that you can’t take care of yourself – it’s even more important to show yourself kindness and patience as you navigate a topic that may be difficult for you.
The University of Manitoba will be closed on Monday, November 11.