Event type
Remembrance Week is a time to remember those who have fallen, reflect on the impact of armed conflict, and pay respect to veterans and soldiers for their contributions to protecting the peace.
Ways to remember
From November 5 to 11, we encourage you to commemorate Remembrance Week in a way that is meaningful to you.
This might include:
- wearing a poppy
- observing a two-minute silence on November 11
- attending a Remembrance Day event in your community
- visiting a memorial or war cemetery
- learning about those who served, including women, Indigenous people, Black Canadians, Chinese Canadians, and Jewish Canadians
Two-minute silence
At 11 a.m. on November 11, pause and observe two minutes of silence in honour of those who died serving their country in wars and in peacekeeping efforts.
Ways to observe:
- sit or stand still
- if driving, pull your vehicle to the side of the road and sit quietly
- announce the silence over the PA system in a business or school
- gather in common areas of an establishment
- briefly shut down assembly lines
Indigenous veterans
Indigenous Veterans Day is observed on November 8, to recognize the courage and sacrifice of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis people in military service.
It is estimated that over 12,000 Indigenous people volunteered their services on the front lines of every conflict that Canada has been involved in.
The First Nations, Inuit and Métis have a long and proud tradition of military service to Canada, which continues today with Indigenous people serving in Canadian Armed Forces around the world — from NATO duties in Europe to United Nations peace operations.
On the home front, Indigenous people donated large amounts of money, clothing, and food to worthy causes. Indigenous women had important roles during conflicts — serving as nurses, air traffic controllers, and radio operators.
On Indigenous Veterans Day, we honour the important contributions of Indigenous peoples to protect rights and freedom in Canada, and we remember those who lost their lives for our country and those whose lives were forever changed.