February 21, 144 Construction Engineering Flight in Pictou invited Sergeant Darryl Paris to speak as part of their Black History Month activities.
Paris, who had family members who served with the No.2 Construction Battalion, was himself formerly a member of the 1st Nova Scotia Highlanders, having served on a United Nations tour in Cypress with the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry. He is a current member of the New Glasgow Police Department, with over 25 years of service.
He is an avid community activist for racial justice and local small business owner. He was the driving force behind the first teen centre, and assisted with the development of others, in Pictou County. He spoke on his experiences growing up as an African Nova Scotian, as well as his time in the Canadian Armed Forces and police forces, and some of the hardships he had to face and successes he has experienced.
This was a very heartfelt and moving talk with the members of the flight, and all appreciated Paris for giving his time to have such a frank discussion. He stayed afterward, as the members moved on to a Black History Month-themed meal, provided by Master Corporal Reddick and his wife, along with Sergeant Wynands Christena.
