Stag Special
In April, the Department of National Defence (DND) and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) began holding regional ceremonies to present the Canada Pride Citation to eligible current and former military members, as defined in the Ross, Roy, Satalic Class Action Final Settlement Agreement, also known as the LGBT Purge Class Action.
Nineteen ceremonies were held in 12 cities across the country. The first ceremony was held in Ottawa April 3; the final ceremony was held in Quebec City May 18. Those who requested to receive their Canada Pride Citation in person received an insignia, a lapel pin, and a certificate of award signed by the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Wayne Eyre.
Due to delays brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, a Canada Pride Citation certificate was mailed in 2020 to each eligible recipient, including those who requested to attend an in-person ceremony, to ensure they could receive their insignia, lapel pin, and citation as soon as possible.
The Canada Pride Citation is one way the Government of Canada has taken action to address the historical injustices experienced by LGBT military members, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and federal public servants. It represents an individual reconciliation and recognition measure, as well as a meaningful step in Canada’s journey of collective understanding and remembrance.
“Recipients of the Canada Pride Citation signed up to serve our country and instead were met with unjust policies and practices, during a shameful period we now refer to as the LGBT Purge. To the class members and their loved ones: I thank you for your service and sacrifice, and for standing up for what’s right,” said Defence MInister Anita Anand.
Added Gen Eyre, “Although we can never undo the pain caused by the LGBT Purge, the Canada Pride Citation is an opportunity to recognize the harm experienced by current and former Canadian Armed Forces members. You have paved the way for a new generation, and in doing so, you have exemplified service to your country. Going forward, it remains our solemn duty to ensure your experiences, and the history of the LGBT Purge, will be remembered by al,l and it’s of the utmost importance that we promote healing and reconciliation where we can.”
Quick Facts
• To receive the Canada Pride Citation, an individual must be a class member as defined in the Ross, Roy, Satalic Class Action Final Settlement Agreement, also known as the LGBT Purge Class Action.
• Efforts were made to contact everyone who requested an in-person presentation ceremony. However, if anyone feels they were missed, they are encouraged to contact the Department of National Defence.
• The Canada Pride Citation certificate of award is signed by the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Commissioner of the RCMP, or the Clerk of the Privy Council.
• The Canada Pride Citation was created by a design committee comprising class members, class legal counsel, federal government representatives and the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
“Survivors of the LGBT Purge and our families have pursued justice for a long time. The ceremonies for the Canada Pride Citations have been important and helpful in our healing journeys. We will wear our citations with pride as we move forward,” said LGBT Purge Fund (and Purge survivor) executive director Michelle Douglas.