The Royal Canadian Navy inroduced its new initiative, supporting diversity of genders, by adopting gender-neutral ranks.
According to Canadian CBC, word references to ‘seaman’ in terms of English titles of designations – able, ordinary, master and leading, will now be replaced with terms that are gender-neutral and align with the existing names of the ranks, in French.
Beginning in September 4th, junior ranks will hence be referred to as ‘sailor’ instead of ‘seaman’. Specifically, the ranks will be known as sailor third class, sailor second class, sailor first class and master sailor, replacing ordinary seaman, able seaman, leading seaman and master seaman.
This highlights the Navy’s effort of becoming more diverse and inclusive and help everyone feel safe and proud of their jobs.
Consequently, the Royal Canadian Navy’s deputy commander, Rear Admiral Chris Sutherland, to warn there is no place in the force for sailors who subscribe to “hateful, misogynistic and racist beliefs.”
