UM recognizes Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day
Honouring those who have served and continue to serve to defend peace.
As we observe National Indigenous Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices made by Indigenous Peoples who served—often in the face of immense adversity. In a time when global conflict continues to shape lives, these days remind us of the enduring importance of sacrifice, resilience and remembrance.
“Indigenous Veterans Day gives us the opportunity to honour the courage, sacrifice, and service of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis veterans who defended this country and contributed to peace around the world. By gathering, we ensure their legacies are remembered, their stories are shared, and our commitment to truth, respect, and Reconciliation continues to grow.” – Christina Courcelles, Engagement Lead, Indigenous Engagement and Communications.
This week, the UM community gathered to mark Indigenous Veterans Day, a significant date to honour the courage, sacrifice and lasting contributions of Indigenous Peoples in Canada’s history.
We’re honoured to welcome Indigenous Veteran William (Bill) Shead, a Cree member of Peguis First Nation and Indigenous Veteran. Bill served in the Royal Canadian Navy for 35 years, first in the Regular Force and later in the Reserve Force. Beyond his military service, he has held leadership roles as Mayor of Selkirk, Prairie Regional Director of Veterans Affairs Canada and CEO of the Neeginan Centre (formerly known as the Aboriginal Centre of Winnipeg).
Indigenous Veteran William (Bill) Shead at the Indigenous Veterans Day event 2025.
In his presentation, Bill reminded us of the profound contributions of Indigenous Veterans to Canada’s history, their influence on the Indigenous renaissance and ongoing Indigenization efforts. Drawing from his lived experience, he invited attendees to reflect on the resilience, leadership and legacy of Indigenous service members, past and present. “I would not have been as fortunate without a veteran” Bill Shead.
Through gatherings like this, the UM community continues to honour the stories and sacrifices of Indigenous Veterans, ensuring their courage guide and inspire future generations.
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.
We honour and acknowledge those among the UM campus community who have and continue to serve. And if you are interested in learning more about the memorials on campus, you can read this story on our UM Today page Remembering the Forgotten written by Wayne Chan.
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 Tuesday, November 11.