Over 100 people gathered at the cenotaph in Corner Brook yesterday as part of the first National Indigenous Veterans Day recognized in the city Nov. 8.

Indigenous soldiers enlisted for the first time during the War of 1812. The first Indigenous Veterans Day was held in Manitoba in 1994, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that family members were permitted to lay a wreath at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

Event organizer Greg Janes, a veteran living in Corner Brook, says the day was an emotional time.

“Indigenous veterans were always treated [differently] than others when they came home,” he says. “They were equal on the battlefield." Janes added that it is a time for reflection and remembrance of the challenges that Indigenous veterans faces specifically. 

Qalipu First Nations Chief Brendan Mitchell says the Corner Brook Aboriginal Women were there drumming and the Spirit Bay Drumming group from Stephenville Crossing. He says this is an important day for Corner Brook and thanked the veterans. 

Humber Bay of Islands MHA Eddie Joyce says Indigenous soldiers have made a significant contribution to NL and Canada.

“History is unbelievable here in the Bay of Islands and Corner Brook," he said, adding that the area has a large percentage of Indigenous people.

“People want to recognize their cultures and [recognize their] forefathers,” he added. 

Tomorrow at Grenfell Campus, there will be a remembrance event at the Danger Tree starting at 10 a.m. 

Listen to CKVB's story about National Indigenous Veterans Day below. Other stories in this newscast include updates on the government introducing a new poverty reduction plan, the Public Utilities Board dismissing the Consumer Advocate’s request for an oral hearing on NL Power’s 2024 Capital Budget application, and Corner Brook's ATV street season ending next week: