Tomorrow, the City of Toronto will honour the legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. This battalion was the largest all-Black battalion-sized formation in Canadian military history, formed during the First World War, a time when Black volunteers faced systemic anti-Black racism and were often rejected from service.
Date: Thursday, November 7
Time: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location: Sanctuary of St. Andrew’s Church, 73 Simcoe St.
RSVP: Media are asked to RSVP to media@toronto.ca by 6 p.m.
Mayor Olivia Chow will be joined by the Hon. Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, the Hon. Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs, along with members of Toronto City Council, veterans, descendants of the soldiers and community members.
The program will include a traditional African opening, remarks from distinguished guests and the unveiling of the plaque. The Heritage Toronto plaque will be installed at the corner of University Avenue and King Street.
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.