In this episode of Purpose & Protection, host Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, speaks with Honourary Colonel Doug Ruck, KC: a pioneer in Canadian public service and a champion for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Doug shares his inspiring journey of breaking barriers, the evolution of Commissionaires, and why representation matters. The conversation also explores the legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s only all-Black battalion in WWI, and its lasting impact on military history and racial justice. Tune in for insights on historical recognition, modern reform, and how service and community remain at the heart of Commissionaires’ mission.

Topics Covered:

• Human rights and civil rights
• Equity, diversity and inclusion
• Doug’s career in law
• No. 2 Construction Battalion
• Representation in organizations and leadership

Links & Resources:

• Commissionaires Nova Scotia: https://commissionaires.ca/podcast
• Douglas Ruck, KC:
• Thurgood Marshall: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thurgood-Marshall
• Spotswood W, Robinson III: https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/spottswood-w-robinson-iii
• Nova Scotia Barrister’s Society, The Ruck Report: https://nsbs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/REGAINING-TRUST-The-Ruck-Report-Oct-29-2024-2.pdf
• No. 2 Construction Battalion: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/no-2-construction-battalion
• The Black Battalion by Calvin W. Ruck: https://halifax.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S135C1915982
• Rev. White Diary: https://wardiaries.ca/s/operationcanada/page/william-andrew-white
• National Apology, No. 2 Construction Battalion: https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2022/07/09/prime-minister-delivers-apology-descendants-no-2-construction

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Presented by Commissionaires Nova Scotia

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