Resident shares idea for sculpture based on monument in Ottawa

With National Indigenous Peoples Day approaching on Sunday, June 21, and talk locally of recognition of the aboriginal presence in our area, perhaps ideas could come from the National Aboriginal Veterans Monument in Ottawa. 

The monument was designed to reflect all Indigenous peoples in Canada: First Nations, Métis and Inuit. It depicts four warriors (two men and two women), facing the four cardinal directions, with four animal figures as spirit guides: the elk, for its sharp senses, the buffalo, for its tenacity, the bear, for its healing powers and the wolf, for its family values. A triumphant eagle is perched at the top of the sculpture to represent both the Creator (Thunderbird) and Indigenous spirit. 

The present monument was the result of the perseverance of aboriginal peoples and, as we know, perseverance builds character and character builds hope (Romans 5:4). 

Perhaps the provincial and federal governments could assist the Town in hope for a proper aboriginal recognition.

—Terry Hall

Amherstburg

Resident shares idea for sculpture based on monument in Ottawa