July 5th is the anniversary of the formation of the No. 2 Construction Battalion (also known as the black battalion) in Pictou, Nova Scotia. It was comprised of black Canadian, American and Caribbean men who were recruited in 1916 to perform construction to support war efforts. Historically, black people had been denied enlistment into the military. They served in France with the Canadian forestry corps, where their labour was crucial for building infrastructure, lumber support and maintaining equipment. They were the last segregated unit in the Canadian military, and were disbanded in 1920. Around 800 men served during the four years that the battalion was active. CUPE Nova Scotia honours their legacy by observing this anniversary, reflecting on their sacrifices and acknowledging their contributions to the war efforts while enduring racism.