Claims period for CAF Systemic Racism Class Action settlement to end on October 15, 2026
September 22, 2026 - Defence Stories
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The individual claims process component of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Systemic Racism Class Action settlement is closing soon: the final day to submit a claim is October 15, 2026. Current and former CAF members who experienced racial discrimination or racial harassment during their military service between April 17, 1985, and January 10, 2025, may submit a claim for monetary payment.
As outlined in the Federal Court-approved Final Settlement Agreement (FSA) claimants may also apply to receive a personally addressed letter of apology and/or participate in a Restorative Engagement (RE) program. Final dollar amounts of monetary payments may be adjusted based on class size, as set out in the FSA.
Submit a claim
To submit a claim, visit the Canadian Armed Forces Racial Discrimination/Racial Harassment Class Action Claims Administration website (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).
Systemic Relief Measures updates
The FSA mandates that the institution implement Systemic Relief Measures (SRM) to improve organizational culture and systems with the objective of addressing and eliminating racism, racial discrimination, and racial harassment in the CAF.
Following its inaugural meeting in March 2026, the CAF Systemic Racism Class Action Coordinating Committee met again in May and June to advance implementation of the SRM. Discussions focused on two key components of the FSA: the RE program and the Research and Analysis initiative. Coordinating Committee members provided valuable advice and guidance, so that lived experiences inform both initiatives. Discussions reinforced the importance of meaningful engagement with Class Members through trauma-informed and anti-racist approaches. The Class Members on the committee also emphasized the need for transparent communication, diverse representation, and ongoing collaboration so that implementation of the SRM addresses systemic racism within the CAF and results in sustainable institutional change.
Building on insights gathered through consultations with Class Members and key partners, the Defence Community Support and Resource Centre (DCSRC) finalized the RE program Design Framework. Further consultation and engagement will continue to support program implementation. The DCSRC is actively seeking CAF members to serve as Defence Representatives. Through a structured preparation program, they will deepen their understanding of racial discrimination and harassment as well as strengthen their capacity to listen and acknowledge Class Members’ experiences, supporting organizational learning and culture change efforts.
Information sessions about the RE program and participation options will begin in fall 2026. Although the claims period ends on October 15, 2026, eligible Class Members interested in participating in RE may still submit a participation request through the Claims Administrator until engagement activities begin in 2027.
As part of the Research and Analysis SRM, through the Director General Military Personnel Research and Analysis, the Defence Team will focus on better understanding the experiences of Indigenous, Black, and other racialized CAF members and the impacts of systemic barriers within the institution. Through a Participatory Action Research approach, this work will help identify and examine systemic racism, racial discrimination, and racial harassment in the CAF. Findings will lead to recommendations that inform institutional policies, programs, and practices and advance FSA objectives.
Have questions?
To learn more, visit the Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) on the Claims Administrator’s website. If you have questions, please reach out to Class Counsel (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website), the Court-appointed law firm representing the interests of the entire Class.
Questions related to the RE program may be sent to the following confidential mailbox: SRCARE-RCRSDR@forces.gc.ca or please visit Restorative Engagement on Systemic Racism.
Services
- Help and assistance related to racism and racial discrimination
- CAF Chaplain Services
- Canadian Forces Health Services Centres
- Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program
Related links
- CAF Systemic Racism Class Action – Quarterly Update
- Claims period is open and ongoing – CAF Systemic Racism Class Action
- Claims period now open for the CAF Systemic Racism Class Action
- Expanded Mandate and New Name for the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre
- Express your interest in becoming a Defence Representative (available only on the DND network)