Forgotten Warriors
Synopsis
Thousands of Indigenous Canadians enlisted in World War II, despite being told by the government that they had no business fighting in the conflict.
Synopsis
At 18, a young soldier recalls his father's warning against fighting in World War II. Despite this, thousands of Indigenous Canadians enlisted, driven by a sense of duty to protect their country. Directed by Loretta Todd, "Forgotten Warriors" documents the experiences of these soldiers who served alongside other Canadians while facing discrimination. After returning home, many found their lands seized and rights denied. The film addresses the stark contrast between their sacrifices and the treatment they received in Canada.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet veterans reflecting on their emotional journeys.
- Find out why Indigenous soldiers felt compelled to serve.
- See how service impacted Indigenous identities and communities.
Did You Know
- An elder revealed that Indigenous people were told they had an agreement with the queen to serve.
- Many Indigenous soldiers felt guilty for serving while others resisted.
- The documentary mentions that Indigenous people declared themselves allies to the British crown during conflicts from the Plains of Abraham to the War of 1812.
- The film shows that Indigenous soldiers saw service as a duty to protect their land and families.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the narrator's father say about fighting in the war?
The narrator's father said it was none of their native Indians' business to fight with the Germans and that if the white people wanted to fight among themselves, they should let them.
Why did many young men and women enlist in the army during the war?
Many young men and women enlisted in the army because they wanted to protect their country and families, and some were motivated by a lack of jobs and the need for a steady income.
What was the perspective of Aboriginal people regarding war?
Aboriginal people did not go to war for imperialist reasons; they viewed their involvement as a means to maintain relationships with the land and to bring about harmony and balance.
What are people saying?
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