February is Black History month. It’s a time for us to celebrate and honour the many contributions that Black Canadians have made throughout our history to help make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation that it is today. For the Defence Team, it’s an opportunity to learn more about the important achievements that Black Defence Team members have made, both within our armed forces and throughout the public service. By bringing forward their own unique perspectives, Black Defence Team members are strengthening our operations, both at home and abroad, and enhancing the work our public service does on behalf of Canadians every day. We encourage Black Defence Team members to tell their stories and share their voices. We can all do our part to make our organization truly inclusive by embracing culture change and learning how to reinforce positive work environments that respect our diversity.
Stag Special
Defence minister Anita Anand invited Canadians to join her in celebrating the beginning of Black History month.
“Black History month gives us the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the many contributions Black Canadians have made over the years to help make Canada the prosperous, peaceful, democratic and compassionate nation that it is,” she said.
“As Minister of National Defence, I especially appreciate and honour the Black Canadians who have proudly served and continue to serve this country, whether in uniform in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) or as public service employees with the Department of National Defence (DND), even in the face of discrimination, racism and hostility.
“We saw this commitment with the No. 2 Construction Battalion, which was formed during the First World War and was composed of Black soldiers who were not allowed to join their White compatriots in battle. This Canadian Expeditionary Force unit served our country from 1916-1920, yet their contributions and achievements were only recognized by the Government of Canada in 1992. The Prime Minister and I offered an official apology to their descendants last year. Their legacy, like their determination to serve, persevered, and we thank them for their service.”
She added, “In November 2022, we established a new tradition of laying a wreath at the National Remembrance Day ceremony to commemorate the sacrifice and contributions of Black members of the Canadian Armed Forces. This wreath laying signals the importance of acknowledging Black contributions and addressing anti-Black racism, and it demonstrates our commitment building a more inclusive institution.
“Black soldiers, sailors, aviators, special forces, and civilian National Defence employees have demonstrated remarkable resilience during our country’s most formative moments—from the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, as well as here at home.
“While we have made progress in addressing harmful behaviours like systemic anti-Black racism within our organization, we acknowledge that there is much work to do. We will continue to make fundamental changes to eliminate systemic barriers and create safer spaces for Black employees to share their experiences — whether it is through the Defence Visible Minority Advisory Group, the Director of Anti-Racism Implementation, or the Defence Team Black Employee Network.
“I encourage all members of the Department of National Defence (DND), the Canadian Armed Forces, and the Communications Security Establishment community to learn more about Black History in Canada, and the experiences of the Black Canadian Armed Forces community.
“By opening and sustaining a dialogue, we can have the open, honest and constructive conversations that will lead to meaningful culture change. As we begin Black History Month, may we recognize the contributions of Black Canadians and the Black Canadian Armed Forces community who helped build Canada, and those who continue to protect our country. May we honour their stories. And may we never forget their extraordinary courage.”