Message in honour of Remembrance Day
“Today, we honour the generations of courageous men and women in uniform who have defended their country Canada and the values of freedom, peace and liberty. And we honour those who still serve our Country. It takes a tremendous amount of strength and bravery to leave your home and family for military service, whether it’s to fight during times of war or to peacefully protect and serve others. We grieve for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and pay homage to those who have been left with the lifelong scars of service.
We also remember the brave Indigenous veterans who have faced prejudice and discrimination just to wear the uniform. They deserve our gratitude for selflessly sacrificing their lives and wellbeing for our freedom. We acknowledge the many brave men and woman of NunatuKavut who have served, and continue to serve, in the Canadian Forces and the men, women and youth in our communities who proudly don their Canadian Ranger and Junior Canadian Ranger uniforms.
Let us take a moment to reflect on what our veterans have so selflessly done for us and humbly offer our appreciation for the peace and freedom we enjoy today. Let us also pay tribute to the men and women who still serve and for whom the burden of war and violence is a present reality. We pray for a safe return home and their health and comfort upon their return.
On this day of remembrance, I am reminded of the freedom we have in celebrating our diversity. I am grateful that that we can stand proud and strong as Indigenous peoples, as Inuit, in our own lands. Canada’s strength lies in honouring its many “Nations” and, when there is peace and harmony among the many Nations, all are stronger.
Lest we forget.”
President Todd Russell,
NunatuKavut Community Council