This Indigenous display is relatively new to the Museum. To your left is a large oil painting by Indigenous artist Jessie Janusca depicting the role of the Indigenous peoples in the Canadian military over the years. Notice the sacred eagle soaring in the skies over the open grasslands and bison. The Indigenous mother sending her son off to fight in World War I symbolizes the sacrifice of the Indigenous peoples. The uniformed soldier in the centre is Corporal Francis Pegahmagabow who represents the valour and sacrifice of all Indigenous soldiers in Canada’s military. The artist’s rendition of a XII Manitoba Dragoons’ armoured car brings us to World War II, while the rows of grave markers symbolize the sacrifice of all members of Canada’s military. After both wars, Indigenous soldiers not only suffered the trauma of war, but also the overt discrimination by the Canadian government of the time.

            Below this painting is a shadow box honouring three highly decorated Indigenous soldiers Francis Pegahmagabow, Tommy Prince and  Charles Henry Byce. To the right is a shadow box honouring a local Indigenous soldier Herman Essie. Below this is an eagle feather which holds great spiritual significance for Indigenous peoples. The eagle feather is used in ceremonies and rituals and is honoured as a sacred object by many tribes. The eagle feather symbolizes strength, wisdom and a strong connection to the Creator.