ABSTRACT
In 1971 the Prime Minister of Canada announced a policy of multiculturalism, designed to achieve harmonious intercultural relations by promoting simultaneously cultural maintenance and intergroup contact and participation in the larger Canadian society. As one of the first organizations to become fully bilingual, the Canadian Forces (CF) has become more inclusive in its efforts to reflect the multicultural identity of Canada. Between 1989 and 2001 all barriers to homosexual and female participation in all job qualifications, including combat, were removed. In this chapter we will examine systemic and attitudinal barriers to full participation in the CF by visible minorities, women, and gays and lesbians,1 as well as the legislation and policies that addressed these barriers.
