War is a source of extreme suffering and poverty. It brings intense pain, lack of food, and absence of support, leaving individuals without the necessary resources—food, vitamins, minerals—to survive.

The effects of war extend beyond individuals to impact families, schools, businesses, governments, and entire societies. Total war devastates communities and leaves lasting trauma for everyone involved.

I remember my grandfather, nimosôm, sharing with our family the profound loss of life he witnessed during the European wars. He spoke of the chaos and devastation, often breaking down in tears as he recounted his experiences. His pain was evident, and he was clearly a victim of post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite his tough, physically imposing presence—he was a hard-working, athletic man who commanded attention as he walked down the street—he carried the heavy burden of his wartime experiences.

He was steadfast in his belief that education is crucial. He emphasized that being well-educated reduces the likelihood of war. He often told his grandchildren, in the presence of our parents, that acquiring education would empower us as Métis to adapt quickly and succeed. He stressed that education would enable us to become leaders who could contribute positively to Canadian society and promote peace in times of conflict.

War causes both physical and mental trauma that can last for decades, or even centuries. It destroys critical infrastructure—homes, schools, hospitals, businesses, and transportation networks—leading to a collapse in communication and transportation. War displaces families and cultures, causing refugees to endure severe hardships in their search for safety and stability.

The environment also suffers, as war devastates ecosystems, contaminating drinking water and air. It redirects tax dollars away from education at all levels, from kindergarten through college and university, resulting in the destruction of educational systems.

War exacerbates ethnic, religious, or political conflicts, creating long-standing enmities and making reconciliation and peace-building exceedingly difficult. It often leads to the destruction of cultural monuments, artifacts, and institutions, erasing significant parts of human history and diminishing the identity of affected communities.

Ultimately, war inflicts extreme, generational trauma that can persist indefinitely.

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