The flags at Municipal Hall and Memorial Park will be flown at half-mast in recognition of National Indigenous Veterans Day on November 8, 2025.
Indigenous Veterans are an important part of Canada’s military history. The First Nations, Inuit, and Métis of Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service to our country. Some of these veterans include the highest decorated soldiers, aviators, and sailors in the country. These veterans often had to overcome many challenges to serve, and some of these challenges extended to their post-service lives. On November 8, we recognize and acknowledge the significant contributions and sacrifices of Indigenous people to both Canada’s war and peacekeeping efforts.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CONFLICTS SERVED & IMPACTS OF INDIGENOUS VETERANS
National Indigenous Veterans Day was created in 1994 to honour the distinct contributions of Indigenous soldiers. Before its establishment, the service of Indigenous veterans often went unrecognized in broader national commemorations. While they fought alongside their fellow Canadians during major conflicts, their experiences and sacrifices were frequently overlooked.
The creation of a distinct Indigenous Veterans Day emerged from efforts to address these historical oversights and provide a dedicated time to recognize the thousands of Indigenous soldiers who served in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. This day also seeks to address the systemic inequalities and challenges that Indigenous veterans faced when they returned home.
Other activities
Commemorating Indigenous Veterans Day
The Defence Indigenous Advisory Group and the Defence Team of CFB Esquimalt invite you to join them for a ceremony commemorating Indigenous Veterans’ Day on Nov. 8 at 10:45 a.m. at the Victoria Cenotaph.
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Le Groupe consultatif des Autochtones de la Défense et l’Équipe de la Défense de la BFC Esquimalt vous invitent à vous joindre à eux pour une cérémonie commémorant la Journée des vétérans autochtones le 8 novembre à 10 h 45 au cénotaphe de Victoria.
Remembrance Day ceremony
Join members of the Royal Canadian Navy, Cadets, Royal Canadian Legion, and Scouts Canada in a Remembrance Day parade and ceremony.
There will be a parade starting at the Tudor House at 10AM (Admirals and Esquimalt roads) that ends at the Cenotaph in Memorial Park (1200 Esquimalt Road).
NOTE: Esquimalt Road will be closed from 9AM to 1PM from Admirals Road to Fraser Street on November 11. Questions? Contact cfbesquimalt@outlook.com