The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) issued an apology on Thursday for the racial discrimination and harassment that current and former members endured during their service. Gen. Jennie Carignan, the chief of the defence staff, and Chief Warrant Officer Bob McCann delivered the apology in Ottawa.
Carignan expressed regret for the systemic barriers faced by First Nations, Inuit, Métis, Black, Asian, and other racialized members of the CAF. She acknowledged the failure to provide an environment where all members could serve with pride and determination, apologizing for the prolonged silence and indifference.
The CAF committed to removing systemic barriers, addressing biases at all levels, and incorporating awareness of systemic racism into recruitment and training efforts. Carignan emphasized that racism has no place in the CAF and must not be tolerated in the future.
McCann echoed Carignan’s sentiments, recognizing the dedication and contributions of service members while acknowledging that they deserved better treatment.
During the ceremony, retired military personnel from Indigenous, Black, and Asian communities spoke about the need for meaningful change beyond just an apology. Wendy Jocko, a retired sergeant and former chief of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, emphasized the importance of transformative and lasting change, highlighting the historical challenges faced by Indigenous service members due to systemic racism within the institution.
Jocko honored the courage of those who spoke out against racism within the CAF, emphasizing that the apology belonged to them. The ceremony also featured speeches from retired captain Kevin Junor, focusing on anti-Black racism, and retired lieutenant-commander Albert Wong, who highlighted the struggles faced by the Asian community.
Junor and Wong reflected on the Minister of National Defence Advisory Panel’s final report, which underscored that racism is ingrained in the Canadian system. They expressed hope that the apology signified a step towards healing the wounds caused by racism within the military.
Following consultation sessions held at the beginning of the year with CAF members and experts, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces recognized the need for ongoing actions, conversations, and education to address racism within the military.
