Town of Caledon Honours Black Battalion

The Town of Caledon unveiled a commemorative plaque honouring the men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion — Canada’s only all-Black military unit to serve during the First World War.

Nicholas Marcus Thompson was present for the unveiling. The story of the Battalion had been missing for far too long.

The No. 2 Construction Battalion was formed in 1916 after Black Canadians were turned away from military service because of open racism. Even so, they volunteered. They were assigned to hard labour — clearing land, building roads, and supporting the war effort overseas. Their work helped Canada at a time when Canada refused to treat them as equals.

Most people never even knew they existed.

The plaque reads in part, “They served with honour, dignity, and resilience.”

In 2022, the Government of Canada formally apologized to the descendants of the No. 2 Construction Battalion for the discrimination and anti-Black hate they faced. The plaque makes it harder to ignore what happened.

Remarks were delivered by Annette Groves, Mayor of the Town of Caledon, Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier of Ontario, and Retired Captain Kevin Junor.

Junor’s role cannot be overstated. He brought the idea to Caledon City Council, carried it forward when it was only a proposal, and pressed for recognition. What stands in Caledon today exists because he refused to let these men be forgotten.

Mary Beth Sutherland, the granddaughter of Lieutenant-Colonel Daniel Hugh Sutherland, the commanding officer of the Battalion, also delivered remarks. Hearing her speak made the history feel close, not distant.

The ceremony was hosted by Alethia O’Hara Stephenson, President and Founder of the Dufferin County Canadian Black Association, whose leadership helped bring the event together.

Thompson was also presented with a commemorative coin, by Captain Junor, in recognition of his work to dismantle systemic discrimination in the public service of Canada. He received it as a reminder to keep going.

The unveiling places the plaque permanently in City Hall, ensuring their sacrifice for Canada is never forgotten. Black history is Canadian history.