The No. 2 Construction Battalion ft. Chuck Smith and Douglas Ruck.

by Itai Kuwodza

The No. 2 Construction Battalion holds a unique place in African Nova Scotian history, and it should hold that unique place in Canadian history. This episode through Chuck Smith and Douglas Ruck tells us why these stories should be known and understood. Chuck and Douglas describe the men who served on the No. 2 Battalion as Black Canadians who embodied resilience and determination in the face of institutional racism during the First World War.

They walk us through the obstacles faced such as the initial rejection of Black men eager to serve their country, who by refusing to be turned away marked a pivotal moment in Canada toward recognition and equality. The battalion's story is not just a military narrative but a significant chapter in the cultural preservation of Black heritage in Canada. Chuck and Douglas, both instrumental in bringing the stories of the No. 2 Construction Battalion to light. This battalion, born out of exclusion and racism, became proof of Black community's unyielding spirit.

We learn a lot in this episode! Chuck and Doug show us that Black bodies have been fighting for cultural preservation and capacity building for decades and centuries. They highlight the efforts of individuals like Andre Boudreau, a French Acadian from Yarmouth. Boudreau initiative to erect a monument in Yarmouth for the Battalion members was a step toward acknowledging and preserving the legacy of Black soldiers who contributed significantly despite the barriers they faced. These stories were at the heart of our forum as they not only celebrate the achievements of Black bodies in history but also serve as reminders of the ongoing work needed to honour and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Black Canadians. In addition, there are captivating stories that show the need to build teams and ensure cultural preservation and finding allies!