When the First World War began, Canadians from across the country lined up to enlist. Hundreds of these selfless volunteers were young Black men, but due to racism, many were denied the honour of serving their country. They persevered, however, and two years later, on July 5th, 1916, the No. 2 Construction Battalion was authorized. It was Canada’s first and only Black battalion.
This commemorative lapel pin honours the men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion. The silhouettes of the battalion men are found in the centre of the pin, wielding the tools they were given. The trees on either side of the soldiers represent the forests they were deployed to in southeast France.