Midland lowers flag for Indigenous Veterans Day

Mayor Bill Gordon gathered with staff and council members to lower the flags for Indigenous Veterans Day. Today honours the contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who participated in and continue to serve in Canada’s military efforts. Indigenous Peoples have fought on the front line of every major battle Canada has been involved in and have done so with valour and distinction. Thank you for your service, lest we forget. 

"Today is Indigenous Veterans Day. This important day of remembrance honours the contributions of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people who participated in and continue to serve in Canada’s military efforts. 

Indigenous Peoples in Canada have fought on the front line of every major battle Canada has been involved in and have done so with valour and distinction. However, it was not until 1995 --- which is fifty years after the Second World War --- that Indigenous Peoples were allowed to lay Remembrance Day wreaths at the National War Memorial. 

This day also serves to educate on the inequitable veteran benefits and rights of returning Indigenous service people. Many Indigenous veterans from the Second World War lost their status when they returned home after fighting overseas for Canada, because the Indian Act specified being absent from the reserve for four years would strip that from them. 

Some Indigenous soldiers who wanted to sign up and fight in the Second World War, were forced to become enfranchised which meant that when they returned to their home communities after fighting for Canada, they no longer had status.

This is on of the many reasons why reconciliation is important. 

Ever year we recognize Remembrance Day, though November 8^th cannot be forgotten. This day we thank the Indigenous people that courageously answered the call of duty, their sacrifice is a debt that can never be repaid. Take these words today, let them sit with you as we lower the flags, as we join together on Remembrance Day, and beyond.

Thank you, again for everyone coming today. The flags will remain lowered at all Town facilities throughout the weekend for Remembrance Day on Monday.

The Legion will be hosting their annual Remembrance Day ceremony starting at 10:50am at the Midland Cenotaph, outside of the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre. After the ceremony the parade will march down King St and head to the Midland Legion (196 Queen St.)." - Mayor Bill Gordon