(June 6, 2024 – Normandy, France) – Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is at Juno Beach today to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a historic turning point in the Second World War. The National Chief visited the site as part of a delegation that included Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs, as well as veterans and family members.
“First Nations have a long history of military service on behalf of Canada,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “More than 4,000 First Nations soldiers fought in the Second World War and many others contributed from the home front despite being enfranchised and losing their rights as First Nations people. The 80th anniversary of D-Day is a reminder of the partnership between First Nations and Canada in the fight against fascism and the special place our people hold for this country.
On behalf of the AFN Veterans Council, it is important that we continue to promote the contributions made by First Nation soldiers and educate Canada about the history of First Nation veterans and what they sacrificed. It is our hope that we will invite our elders and spiritual advisers to this sacred place to honour and call home our fallen warriors.”
―30―
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
Contact information:
Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
[email protected]
Kelly Reid
Senior Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
(613) 292-0857 (mobile)
[email protected]