Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Systemic Racism Class Action – Ongoing delay to start of claims period

September 26, 2025 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 1:30

We would like to share an update from the Class Counsel representing Class Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Systemic Racism Class Action (SRCA) regarding the delay in the implementation of the claims period.

An appeal of the Federal Court’s Order approving the settlement of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Systemic Racism Class Action was filed in the Federal Court of Appeal on March 17, 2025; the Court denied the appeal on August 13, 2025. The Appellants have until October 14, 2025, to seek leave to appeal this decision to the Supreme Court of Canada. If they choose to seek leave to appeal, the claims period and settlement implementation will begin once the Supreme Court of Canada appeal process is complete. If they choose not to seek leave to appeal, the claims period will open on October 15, 2025.

We understand that the ongoing legal process and the resulting delay in the settlement’s implementation may cause uncertainty or anxiety for those affected. For information and updates about the class action, visit the Class Counsel website or the Canadian Armed Forces Racial Discrimination and Racial Harassment Class Action Claims Administration (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).

As we await the start of the claims period, the Defence Team continues to plan for the implementation of the settlement, demonstrating its commitment to providing CAF members with a psychologically safe and inclusive workplace where everyone’s voices are heard.

The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre has been mandated to design and deliver Restorative Engagement (RE) on Systemic Racism. Consultations on RE will begin in early fall to reflect the needs of people who have been affected by racial harassment and racial discrimination. In the meantime, if you have questions regarding RE on Systemic Racism, email the confidential mailbox SRCARE-RCRSDR@forces.gc.ca.

Updates will continue to be provided as information becomes available.