Minister of National Defence video message for Black History Month 2025
Video / February 6, 2025
Transcript
In February, during Black History Month, we honour the contributions that Black Canadians have made to our nation.
Including the members of the Canadian Armed Forces, past and present, who have served our country throughout its history.
We commend their bravery on the battlefield and each and every time our military has deployed.
Today, and all month long, we celebrate your collective legacy.
We also recognize the strength of Black Defence Team members in the long fight for equity.
We are building a Defence Team where everyone who joins feels safe and empowered to share their skill, dedication and valuable perspectives.
Where everyone who puts on the uniform, or wears a civilian badge, can do so without fear of discrimination.
There’s perhaps no better example of the selfless contributions of Black members of the Canadian Armed Forces, than those who made up Number 2 Construction Battalion — who served with courage and honour during the First World War.
Black Canadians continue to shape the CAF and have been leaders within our military, like Chief Warrant Officer Claude “Ollie” Cromwell, who began a long career in military logistics in 1979.
During his time in uniform, CWO Cromwell proudly wore the maple leaf on international peace support missions around the world, from the Golan Heights and Kosovo, to Cyprus and Afghanistan.
After four decades of service, he retired in 2019 as a member of the Order of Military Merit.
Today, and every day, we recognize the many ways in which Black Canadians have built a better Defence Team and a safer Canada.
We honour this important legacy of bravery, hope and service to Canada.
Thank you. Merci.