November 11 – Remembrance Day
Today, we pause to remember.
We remember the men and women who served, those who sacrificed their lives, those who returned home wounded, and those whose lives were forever changed by war.
We remember the soldiers, veterans, civilians, families, and communities, who endured the devastation of conflict.
But today, I also want us to remember those who could never choose.
The animals.
The horses that carried soldiers into battle. The mules and donkeys that transported supplies. The dogs sent into dangerous situations as messengers, sentries, and search animals. The pigeons that carried messages through the skies.
They did not enlist. They did not volunteer. They could not understand the battles being fought or why they were placed in the middle of human conflict.
They did not choose the danger, the suffering, the injuries or the loss of life.
Yet they were there, caught in wars created by humanity.
Some never returned. Others were wounded, exhausted, permanently injured or left to suffer.
Their lives mattered. Their suffering mattered. And they deserve to be remembered.
There are different Poppy colours and remembrance traditions that help us recognize the many lives, communities, and sacrifices connected to war.
The traditional symbol of remembrance, honouring those who died in battle and recognized the sacrifices of military personnel and veterans.
Used by animal – remembrance campaigns to honour the animals who suffered, were injured or lost their lives during war. Horses, mules, donkeys, dogs, pigeons and many other animals who were caught in conflicts they never chose.
Represents remembrance of all victims of war, including civilians and military personnel, and a commitment to peace and a future without war.
Honours the contributions and sacrifices of African, Black, Caribbean, West Indian, Pacific Island, and other communities represented by the black poppy rose campaign.
A meaningful visual representation recognizing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Veterans, their service, contributions, and sacrifices during times of war and conflict.
Indigenous – crafted beadwork reflects cultural identity heritage and artistic traditions. Indigenous veterans and their communities deserve recognition for the important place they hold in our history.
Let us remember the soldiers, the veterans, the Indigenous communities, the Black and Caribbean communities, the Civilian, the Families, and the animals who were caught in their suffering of war.
Let us remember those who chose to serve, those who were called to serve, and those who had no choice at all.
Let us honour the courage, the sacrifice, the suffering and the lives lost.
And let us never forget that peace, compassion, and respect for all living beings are worth protecting.
May we continue to learn from history, stand against cruelty, and work towards a world where fewer lives are lost to conflict.
Remembering every life. Honouring every sacrifice. Never forgetting.
With respect, compassion, and remembrance.
Robin
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