Thank you, Chair.
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, honourable colleagues, and committee members, thank you for giving me the opportunity to underline the importance of recognizing the outstanding contributions of African Canadians to the Canadian Forces and their country by honouring these veterans and fallen heroes with a national commemorative ceremony and an African Canadian war memorial commemorating black soldiers who fought and died to secure our freedom.
Earlier this year, on February 24, 2011, as part of Black History Month, the Department of National Defence recognized and honoured for the first time the contributions to the Canadian Forces of African Canadians from the British West Indies and Haiti and of Canadian-born blacks.
As a Jamaican-born Canadian citizen and the fourth African Canadian to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, I know first-hand the struggles minorities in this country face. I'm also doubly aware of the tremendous battle that black Canadians face to receive inclusion and recognition as members of the Canadian military.
In brief, these veterans paved the way for Canadian Forces members of all origins to take their rightful place to reflect the diverse Canadian society they serve. These black veterans struggled for their right to defend their country and fellow citizens. They equally deserve the honour of a national ceremony commemorating their contributions.
Honourable colleagues, I firmly believe that while the Canadian Forces maintain themselves to be a relevant, modern, and progressive national institution in the 21st century, we must be transparent and fully recognize the contributions and sacrifices African Canadians have shown in the past for a better tomorrow. It is crucial that our government commit to educating Canadians and the world about the rich history of African Canadians in the Canadian military.
During my research for this recommendation, I was glad to see that the National Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Veterans Affairs websites have several pages devoted to the African Canadian soldiers in the regiments in various wars. But honourable members, it was a real shame that one must dig for these historical facts; that this history remains buried in the past and is not recognized by a national commemorative ceremony.
The educational benefits of a national commemorative celebration recognizing the role of African Canadians in Canadian history are abundant, not only for our youth but for all Canadian men and women. We must remember the sacrifice and achievements of African Canadians for generations to come. Our black ancestors fought hard to break down barriers and open doors for those who follow. Their efforts should no longer be hidden, but should serve as inspiration and encouragement for our youth that they too can overcome the odds.
I strongly suggest that this proposed national commemoration take place annually, possibly on Emancipation Day—which is the first Monday of August—which represents the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1834 and thus also in Canada.
I support the effort of my predecessor, the late Senator Calvin Ruck, to preserve, educate, and commemorate the history of black veterans, which resulted in his successor's having a memorial erected in Nova Scotia dedicated to the members of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, for this memorial specifically symbolizes the contribution of African Canadian men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion. I recommend a war memorial that represents all African Canadian soldiers who served and continue to serve their country—a national ceremony paying homage to all African Canadian soldiers, both past and present.
Honourable colleagues, it is important to Canada to honour the significant role that black people have played and continue to play in the history of our country. I want to point to something relevant here, the fact that our Prime Minister and our Minister of Defence, Peter MacKay, in a ceremony that was held in Tehran in 2009, also indicated this:
“The legacy is found in the Canada they helped to build and protect, a country that cherishes freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Black Canadians may take distinct pride in their service to our country, as they have a long and honourable tradition of patriotism, sacrifice and heroism.”
That was from the Prime Minister.
Defence Minister Peter MacKay noted: “We are fortunate that in modern times there has been an increase in recognition of the efforts these men and women have made in Canada's name. The history of the service extends from far beyond Confederation right up to the present day. Their efforts will not be forgotten.”
More important, honourable colleagues, a national commemorative reminds us that we have overcome and will continue to overcome many tribulations as we persevere to fight for equality and the preservation of our freedom.
I trust that this presentation was useful, and I look forward to answering your questions.
Thank you Mr. Chair.