Descendants and relatives of a battalion that wasn’t allowed to fight near the front lines in the First World War due to the colour of their skin will get an apology from the federal government.
Members from the No. 2 Construction Battalion came from Canada, the United States and Barbados but had significant Saskatchewan ties.
Many Black men tried to enlist in the First World War during the recruiting phase but were ignored or told they weren’t needed.
This battalion was used for the production of timber to build and repair roads.
The apology, which will be taking place in Truro, Nova Scotia, will address the discrimination the members of the battalion faced and will be livestreamed at the Regina Armouries, with the hospitality of the Royal Regina Rifles.
Saskatchewan Lt.-Gov. Russ Mirasty will be in attendance and will offer greetings.
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