Throughout Canada's history, Black Canadians have taken their places on the field of honour with their compatriots. They fought in the War of 1812, stood firm against rebellion in 1837 and defended Canada's borders against the Fenian invaders in 1866. They have won glory and they have won honour carrying out their duty during two World Wars and the Korean War. For Blacks, though, the privileges of wearing the uniform and defending the country in war have often come only after fighting and winning other battles, battles against discrimination and rejection on grounds of colour.
Before, during and after the World Wars, and until 1947 when they were given the right to vote, Asian Canadians were also denied the most fundamental rights of citizenship. Yet, over 1,200 of these men and women of Chinese and Japanese origin voluntarily fought to put on the uniform to prove their patriotism.
For people of non-European origins, the qualities most desired in the soldiers called upon to defend their country were often not enough to gain them a place in the ranks. But they persisted. They stood with other Canadians on the field of honour. They have succeeded.
Black, Chinese, and Japanese Canadians have paved the way for Canadians of ALL origins to proudly take their rightful place in the Canadian Forces. They have become role models, not only for the youth from their respective communities, but for all Canadian men and women.
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