Indigenous Awareness Week is celebrated annually during the third week of May all across Canada, including by Defence Team members. To commemorate the day and celebrate the beginning of Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW), the 14 Wing Greenwood’s Defence Indigenous Advisory Group welcomed Defence Team members and community friends for a May 20 flag-raising event, followed by a smudging ceremony.
For the flag-raising of the Mi’kmaq Grand Council flag, in front of 26 Canadian Forces Health Services, 14 Wing Commander Colonel Luc Vachon and DIAG member Master Corporal Crystal Cox provided insightful opening remarks, connecting the importance of the day and this year’s theme, “The difference you make today, counts in all our tomorrow.” Both emphasized how individual and collective actions taken now, whether it be through education, allyship, participation and more; can help lead to a positive future.
Attendees then walked to the wing’s main entrance, where ceremonial leader Lieutenant Melanie Rustenburg hosted a smudging ceremony, an ancient practice promoting the elements of healing and well-being. Rustenburg guided members through the ceremony, many for the first time.
