By Daniel Anderson
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The Military Museum is hosting a free event dedicated to Black service members and their struggles throughout Black History Month. Located in the main entrance, displays of their stories and artefacts are shown alongside its historical context. Multiple members from the No. 2 Construction Battalion have their stories displayed. The No.2 Construction Battalion was a majority Black unit that operated during WW1 which faced racism and discrimination. Before the creation of the group after lobbying, Black men reportedly faced active resistance from enlisting despite there being no legislation against them. Additionally, Black service
members reported facing anti-Black racism from other service members.
members reported facing anti-Black racism from other service members.
When asked about the extent of the discrimination faced by black service members Walter Brooks, collections manager of the Military Museum, said "A lot of the people who were probably the most discriminatory were also the best at covering it up. Which is rather unfortunate." Brooks further elaborated that cover ups have been historically used to protect perpetrators and their superiors from the consequences of their actions. Brooks added "We tell stories if we have the stories to tell.”
The unit was officially disbanded in September 1920 however it would be 102 years later that the treatment of the Battalion was acknowledged. On July 9th 2022, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau issued a formal apology to the descendants of the No.2 Construction Battalion. “The members of No. 2 Construction Battalion were never given the hero’s welcome they deserved.” Said Trudeau in his apology speech. “I hope all Canadians will research our unwritten and untold stories.”
