National Aboriginal Veterans Monument

Aboriginal Canadians have responded to the call of war, time and time again. In Confederation Park, in downtown Ottawa, a monument honours Aboriginal Canadians who have volunteered in Canadas armed forces, from the First World War to the present day. At six metres high, it is a significant reminder that many Aboriginal Canadians sacrificed their lives at a time when they didnt even have the right to vote.

The monument, unveiled on National Aboriginal Day, June 21, 2001, was commissioned by the National Aboriginal Veterans Association, an organization formed in 1981 to represent the accomplishments and interests of Aboriginal peoples in times of war and peace. Aboriginal soldiers are renowned as snipers and reconnaissance scouts, utilizing their traditional skills as hunters and warriors.

Created by Aboriginal artist Lloyd Pinay of the Peepeekisis First Nation in Saskatchewan, the bronze and granite monument reflects harmony with the environment, a central and long-standing Aboriginal value. Accordingly, all humans, plants and animals exist in an interrelated circle, and have spirits that must be respected, honoured and tended.

Four animal spirits — wolf, buffalo, elk and bear — guide warriors in their pursuit of victory and peace. Male and female figures represent Aboriginal Canadians from Metis, Inuit and First Nations communities across Canada. They hold weapons, but also important spiritual objects: an eagle feather fan and a peace pipe.

Symbol of the Creator, the Thunderbird sits atop the monument, uniting and guiding those below.

See this treasure on the official Canada's Got Treasures website!
http://www.museevirtuel-virtualmuseum.ca/sgc-cms/expositions-exhibitions/tres...

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Monument
• Aboriginal
• Veteran
• War
• Sculpture