The Number of Supporters
Support for the WWI from Indigenous peoples in the BC territory has not been critically analyzed in Great War literature. There are statistics available for this time period,records indicate that one in three, “able-bodied” Indigenous men enlisted during the WWI.[1] Despite these published reports the true number of Indigenous volunteers is unknown.However their accuracy must be questioned. It can be argued that the statistics collected from this time were generalized and perpetuated a pan-Indigenous perspective. This ambiguity is due to prejudicial belief systems that proliferated in this period: many Metis, First Nations, or Inuit peoples who enlisted were simply referred to as “Indians”.
Support from Vancouver Island
There was support from Vancouver Island Indigenous peoples, primarily from the North Island, Albert Bay Region.[6] There was no support from the Cowichan Region (South Island), with no members of the agency enlisting.[7]
Library and Archives Canada, Acc. No. 1989-378-1
Canadian Patriotic Fund
To the surprise of many there was monetary support from Indigenous communities during this time period. This continued from 1914-1918, as communities from British Columbia contributed funds to the Canadian Patriotic Fund. [2]
I have the pleasure in drawing attention to the fact that the participation of Great Britain in the war has occasioned expressions of loyalty from the Indians, and the offer of contributions from their funds toward the genera expenses of the war or toward the Patriotic Fund. Some bands have also offered the services of their warriors if they should he needed.[3]
Quote from Duncan Campbell Scott (Deputy Superintendent General of the Department of Indian Affairs)
[1] Department of Indian Affairs, Annual Report, 1918-1919, p. 13
[2] Department of Indian Affairs, Annual Report, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916
[3] Department of Indian Affairs, Annual Report, 1913-1914, p.xxvii.