Armed Forces commanders signal hard line against racism and sexual violence in the ranks

Both the incoming and outgoing commanders of the Royal Canadian Navy today delivered some of their most forceful public condemnations of racism and sexual violence in the ranks — an apparent signal the military’s campaign against misconduct has entered a new phase.

The remarks were delivered in tandem by Vice-Admiral Art McDonald — who becomes the country’s new top military commander later this week — and Vice-Admiral Craig Baines during a virtual change-of-command ceremony in Ottawa.

There was a tone of impatience and dismay in Baines’ first speech as commander of the navy as he addressed the social issues Armed Forces commanders have been struggling with for years.

“While many of us would agree that in the 21st century, it is mind-boggling that we are still having to deal with unacceptable sexual misconduct, still having to deal with hateful conduct, still having to deal with systemic racism and misogyny, still having to educate people on the requirements for respectful conduct — it is the world in which we find ourselves,” said Baines, who served as commander of Canada’s East Coast fleet until last summer.