Dreaver

Artistic representations of veterans are one way to commemorate their service. Indigenous artist Mike Holden, of the Cote First Nation in Saskatchewan, depicts Chief Joseph Dreaver (1881–1978). Chief Dreaver was a decorated soldier who served in both world wars. He lost two brothers in the First World War and a son in the Second World War. Throughout his life, he was a community leader.

The artist portrays Chief Dreaver in a traditional war bonnet, with his medal set displayed prominently, giving equal measure to his roles as Chief of the Mistawasis and a veteran. The use of a Canadian flag as a backdrop represents Chief Dreaver’s patriotism at a time when Indigenous peoples were not given the same rights as other Canadians. Finally, Holden depicted a heart at the centre of the uniform as a symbol of Chief Dreaver’s forgiveness with regard to the State.