Breaking Barriers: A conversation with HCol Doug Ruck, KC

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

Produced by Podstarter

Become a commissionaire: commissionaires.ca 

What is Purpose & Protection?

Commissionaires Nova Scotia proudly presents Purpose & Protection, a podcast dedicated to the people behind Canada’s security: veterans, their families, civilians and all those dedicated to keeping our communities safe. Each episode explores the lived experiences of those who’ve served, those who support them, and those shaping the future of Canada’s security landscape. From the frontlines to the home front, you’ll hear stories of resilience, leadership and purpose.

As the largest private employer of veterans in Nova Scotia and Canada’s only not-for-profit security provider, Commissionaires is committed to providing meaningful employment to Canadian Armed Forces, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, their families and Canadians wishing to contribute to the security and wellbeing of Canadians.

Join Barry Pitcher, CEO of Commissionaires Nova Scotia, as he speaks with veterans, security professionals and thought leaders about:
-Life after service – veteran transition, support, and new opportunities
-Canada’s changing security landscape – challenges and innovations
-The civilian role in safety – how communities can contribute and support
Leadership and purpose – serving with integrity and protecting what matters

Whether you are a veteran, a supporter or simply curious about the people protecting our communities Purpose & Protection offers insight, inspiration and connection.