History, struggles, learning all an opportunity to ‘be part of the solution’

A Black History Month panel event at the Annapolis Mess February 27 brought together five accomplished Black Canadians, several with years of Canadian Armed Forces’ service experience and continuing connections with Defence Team members. The afternoon’s discussion highlighted the achievements of the five panelists, and also provided valuable insights into certain topics some audience guests may not be aware of.

14 Air Maintenance Squadron Lieutenant-Colonel Eric Travis welcomed the panelists to 14 Wing Greenwood, and encouraged all in attendance “to be open-minded, to listen and to learn,” reminding everyone of the importance of exhibiting these to continue to play a part in “assisting and improving inclusivity” throughout 14 Wing.

Warrant Officer Alan Bezanson, an 18-year service member and member of 14 Wing’s Defence Visible Minority Awareness Group, guided the discussion, aiming to “reflect, learn and engage in meaningful conversations” surrounding Black History Month, Black history, Black Canadian heritage and culture.

To many Black Canadians, Black History Month is more than just a month dedicated to honouring and celebrating achievements and contributions. Former Army Cadet lieutenant-colonel and ninth generation Black Canadian Ken Fells, a Halifax high school principal, said “every day is a day that heritage is lived – it’s in me, it’s who I am.”

Other panelists echoed Fells’ perspective.

“It is history, every day,” Corporal Cliff Tshibungu says, an Ottawa-based Canadian Armed Forces Conduct and Culture staffer.

Black Canadian history is proud, but panelists all agreed it hasn’t always been easy. Tshibungu insists, though, any “struggles made me the person I am.”

As everyone faces unique challenges, panelists each highlighted some of the obstacles and barriers they have faced and had to overcome.

“Resilience and having good support around you is important,” said Quentrel Provo when discussing how to overcome and navigate challenges. He is a Nova-Scotian singer, songwriter and award-winning advocate as the founder of Stop the Violence Brand and Movement.

Cora Tolliver, the civilian regional manager of the CAF’s Atlantic Conflict and Complaint Management Service, agreed “a strong foundation and allyship” are important tools for others who experience similar challenges. When looking to lend assistance it may be difficult to know where to start.

“Start small, with small acts,” Tshibungu said. “Start there.”

“Anyone can be part of the problem,” said Rev. Dr. Lennett J. Anderson. With 20 years as a CAF chaplain, Anderson is now the senior pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church and an Acadia Divinity College assistant professor. “Be part of the solution.

“We must all be part of the solution.”

Tolliver acknowledged “noticeable improvement” in addressing inclusivity over the past decade, but said there are still challenges many still face. Having the panelists share and discuss their own experiences provided insight into potential resolutions, demonstrating how everyone may work together to create a stronger Defence Team.

Bezanson closed the event, saying, “true inclusivity isn’t about diversity, it’s about action: creating spaces that are safe, fostering unity and learning together.”