This documentary introduces us to thousands of Indigenous Canadians who enlisted and fought alongside their countrymen and women during World War II, even though they could not be conscripted. Ironically, while they fought for the freedom of others, they were being denied equality in their own country and returned home to find their land seized.
Loretta Todd's poignant film offers forth the testimony of those who were there, and how they managed to heal.Ages 14 to 17
Mini-Lesson - Forgotten Warriors
Civics/Citizenship - Human Rights
History - Canada 1946-1991
Indigenous Studies - Issues and Contemporary Challenges
Social Studies - Social Policies and Programs
Why did it take so long for World War II Aboriginal soldiers to receive recognition for their contribution to the war effort? How did the legacy of their suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the reintegration policies of the Canadian government contribute to problems that remained unresolved decades later? Students should compare and contrast the treatment of WWII Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal soldiers with that of soldiers from the Korean War and the Afghanistan mission.