Involvement of Black Canadians to National Service
Like other historically marginalized groups, Black Canadians were eager to serve their country in times of war, but they faced a unique set of barriers. Several of the recruiters involved in the war effort were discriminatory and refused to let certain minorities join. However, despite these complications, Black Canadians did join the war effort in large numbers, particularly during World War II. These brave men and women served in countries such as Italy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Canada. Black servicemen earned several decorations for their bravery on the battlefields, while Black women occupied supporting roles to free up men for the front lines. On the home front, Black men and women played a crucial role in the Canadian victory by working in factories to make weapons and supplies, and raising funds for the war effort. Today, the service of Black men and women at home and abroad during both World Wars is commemorated as part of the long and proud tradition of Black military service in Canada.
Involvement of Black Canadians to National Service
Like other historically marginalized groups, Black Canadians were eager to serve their country in times of war, but they faced a unique set of barriers. Several of the recruiters involved in the war effort were discriminatory and refused to let certain minorities join. However, despite these complications, Black Canadians did join the war effort in large numbers, particularly during World War II. These brave men and women served in countries such as Italy, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Canada. Black servicemen earned several decorations for their bravery on the battlefields, while Black women occupied supporting roles to free up men for the front lines. On the home front, Black men and women played a crucial role in the Canadian victory by working in factories to make weapons and supplies, and raising funds for the war effort. Today, the service of Black men and women at home and abroad during both World Wars is commemorated as part of the long and proud tradition of Black military service in Canada.