Ottawa – Overcoming racism, members of No.2 Construction Battalion made a significant contribution to Canada’s First World War effort; their service must be recognized and honoured. To increase awareness and to educate Canadians of the invaluable history of No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s only all-Black battalion-sized formation, the Government of Canada is launching a call for applications through Veteran Affairs Canada’s Commemorative Partnership Program (CPP).
Organizations planning commemorative activities, developing educational materials or wishing to build or improve community war memorials that commemorate No. 2 Construction Battalion, its members, and its ongoing legacy, are encouraged to apply.
This dedicated funding addresses one of the recommendations outlined by the National Apology Advisory Committee (NAAC) by creating opportunities for education, remembrance and honouring of No. 2 Construction Battalion.
“We must pay tribute to the members of No. 2 Construction Battalion, and their families, who served our country despite the challenges and discrimination they endured. I encourage individuals and organizations to apply so that all Canadians can learn about the stories of these brave Canadians. As we mark the beginning of Black History Month, we are reminded how important it is to learn about our history, including both the adversity and significant contributions of Black Veterans to our country.” – Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence