Canadian Armed Forces members encouraged to update Employment Equity Self-Identification questionnaire
June 16, 2025 - Defence Stories
Estimated read time - 2:00

During basic training, all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members have the opportunity to voluntarily self-identify (Self-ID) as a member of one or multiple employment equity seeking groups.
Employment equity seeking groups include women, persons with disabilities, racialized individuals, and Indigenous peoples.
The CAF Self-ID questionnaire is used to better understand the overall representation of equity seeking groups and further supports the CAF’s commitment to the elimination of employment barriers that have historically disadvantaged these communities. Self-ID also helps the CAF to comply with the Employment Equity Act (EEA) and facilitates the planning and implementation of employment equity activities.
The information collected is confidential, in accordance with the Privacy Act and the EEA, and is never shared with your unit or the chain of command.
CAF members can and are encouraged to update or amend previously completed Self-ID forms at any point during their careers.
How to update self-id
- Download and complete the DND 1209 - CAF Self-Identification form (accessible only on the DWAN)
- All CAF members are required to fill out Part A. It is highly recommended to fill out parts B and C as well to allow the CAF to obtain the most accurate information.
- Internally mail the PROTECTED B document either individually or through your unit orderly room to:
- Director Inclusion
National Defence Headquarters
101 Colonel By Drive
Ottawa ON K1A 0K2
- Director Inclusion
Making sure CAF members are aware they can update or amend their Self-ID at any time allows the CAF to maintain accurate representation data and directly supports future strategic planning.
Additional information on CAF Self-ID is available at the CAF’s Employment Equity and Diversity intranet page (accessible only on the DWAN).