Government of Canada Recognizes the National Historic Significance of Black Militia Units in Upper Canada, 1812-1850

May 10, 2019                       Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario                 Parks Canada Agency

Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, will take part in a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque unveiling ceremony to commemorate the national historic significance of Black Militia Units in Upper Canada, 1812-1850.

During the War of 1812, the Black community volunteered in large numbers and quickly established a tradition of military service and community commitment. Black Militia Units in Upper Canada demonstrated the determination of Canadians of African descent to take part in the duties and defend the rights of British subjects.

The Colored Corps, a segregated Black company formed as a unit in the 1st Lincoln Militia, saw its first action during one of the most famous battles in our country’s history, the Battle of Queenston Heights in October 1812.

Serving in numbers that were disproportionate to their percentage of the Canadian population, Black soldiers demonstrated their belief in the importance of Canada as a haven for former slaves.

Their bravery and constant determination demonstrated a commitment to Upper Canada as a symbol of their freedom.

Mr. Bittle will make the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

Please note that this advisory is subject to change without notice.

The details are as follows:

Date:                May 11, 2019

Time:               Ceremony starts at 10:00 a.m. EDT                  

Location:         Officers’ Quarters at Fort George National Historic Site
                        51 Queens Parade
                        Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
                        L0S 1J0

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