The Canadian Armed Forces have released a series of changes to their dress code. These changes are due to the need to adapt this code -which is around 50 years old- for respect, diversity and inclusion. “The emergence of the Canadian military has not kept pace with the society they serve,” reads the official notice issued on July 5. The new rules, which come into effect in September, allow uniforms to be mixed, so military personnel can opt for any of the clothing previously divided by gender. They also open the door to the use of various previously prohibited accessories and badges.

Hair extension and dyeing won’t be a problem, as long as you tie your hair past your shoulders and leave your face uncovered. The cut and color cannot in any way affect operational tasks such as camouflage combat exercises. The document indicates that in these circumstances a “simple accommodation” must be found. For example, a scarf to hide the hair. New recruits will also not be required to shave their heads during their basic training. “Uniformity does not equate to discipline, nor to operational efficiency, nor does hair color or length define professional commitment or competence,” said General Wayne Eyre, Chief of State- Canadian Defense Major, in a video posted on Twitter. .

Sideburns, beards and mustaches are permitted regardless of volume, provided they are well trimmed and symmetrical. The same will happen with long nails and their color, but on condition that they do not affect operational tasks. Regarding facial tattoos, the new regulations indicate that they have a place in the military ranks, unless they are linked to criminal groups or incite hatred or discrimination in all its forms, as stipulated in the Canadian Human Rights Act.

Hoop earrings will also be allowed, but must respect a maximum size. In the same way, the military will be able to carry the backpack on one shoulder, as long as it is on the left so that the right arm is free to salute. General Eyre had this to say about this set of changes: “Some will see it as progress, while others will see it as an injustice. Beware of the false dichotomy that one must choose between changing one’s dress and appearance or being strong. In November, members of the military leadership announced that these changes to the dress code would soon be implemented. At the end of March, Lise Bourgon, acting chief of staff, told The Canadian Press that changes to the code would include gender neutrality.

The Canadian Armed Forces have retention and recruiting challenges. According to a report published in February, they suffer from a deficit of about 7,600 members. The pandemic has been a huge factor, as have accusations about the lack of diversity in its ranks, particularly when it comes to women, Indigenous peoples and other communities. In turn, a long list of harassment and sexual assault scandals it caused defections and a weakening of trust in the institution. Anita Anand, Minister of Defense since October 2021, has promised to fight this problem vigorously.

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