Vimy Week Stories - the Six Nations Women's Patriotic League

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During the First World War, Indigenous women played crucial roles in supporting and raising funds despite facing systemic barriers and discrimination within Canada. Their contributions exemplified a profound commitment to service, both to their communities and to a nation that often overlooked their rights and recognition.

Indigenous women across Canada actively participated in fundraising efforts to support the war cause. Despite facing challenges such as limited access to education and political rights, they organized events, sold goods, and engaged in various activities to raise funds for the war effort. These endeavors were not only acts of patriotism but also reflections of their dedication to supporting their communities during a time of crisis.

Beyond fundraising, the Six Nations Women's Patriotic League (SNWPL), along with other Indigenous women's groups, extended their support to soldiers and their families through a wide array of initiatives. They knitted socks and sewed uniforms, and even young girls in the communities contributed by making handmade items for the troops. These women and girls also collected essential supplies like clothing, money, and food, which were sent overseas to support the war effort. Demonstrating their community's rich cultural heritage, they organized social gatherings and bazaars, selling traditional crafts, hand-baskets, and beadwork, to raise significant funds. These activities not only showcased their solidarity and support for those on the front lines but also highlighted their creative ingenuity and dedication to contributing to the war effort in meaningful ways.

In conclusion, Indigenous women in Canada, during the First World War, exemplified unparalleled dedication and resilience. Amidst systemic barriers and discrimination that marginalized them from the rights and citizenship afforded to others, they tirelessly worked to support not only their communities but also a nation that had yet to acknowledge their full rights. Through their extensive fundraising efforts, creative initiatives, and unwavering support for the war effort, these women demonstrated a profound sense of service to their community and country.

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