The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) issued an apology on Thursday for the racial discrimination and harassment experienced by current and former members during their service. Gen. Jennie Carignan, chief of the defence staff, and Chief Warrant Officer Bob McCann delivered the apology in Ottawa.
Carignan acknowledged the systemic barriers faced by First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, Asian, and other racialized members within the CAF. She expressed regret for the failure to create an inclusive environment that allowed all members to serve proudly and effectively. Carignan emphasized the commitment to eliminating systemic barriers, addressing biases, and integrating awareness of systemic racism into recruitment and training processes.
McCann, following Carignan’s apology, praised the dedication of members to the institution and the country, highlighting that they deserved better treatment.
Retired military members from Indigenous, Black, and Asian communities also spoke at the event. Wendy Jocko, a retired sergeant and former chief of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, stressed that while an apology was a necessary first step, what they sought was genuine and lasting change. Jocko reflected on the historical challenges faced by Indigenous soldiers and emphasized the importance of acknowledging their service and pain.
The ceremony featured speeches from retired captain Kevin Junor addressing anti-Black racism and retired lieutenant-commander Albert Wong discussing the struggles of the Asian community. Junor highlighted the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel on Systemic Racism and Discrimination’s final report, stating that racism in Canada was ingrained in the system.
Wong expressed hope that the apology symbolized a turning point in addressing the impact of racism on service members. The Department of National Defence and the CAF conducted consultations earlier in the year with members and experts, leading to recommendations for ongoing actions, conversations, and educational initiatives within the CAF.
