The record of modern warfare clearly demonstrates that military effectiveness depends upon armed forces being integral parts of the societies they serve, not being isolated from them. The society in which and for which the Canadian Forces serve is in the process of rapid legal, economic and social change. As a result, the Forces must respect women's rights, reject discrimination based on race or sexual orientation and conform to other Canadian legislation reflecting evolving social values. The Forces have responded. Today, some 6,400 women serve in the Canadian Forces as regulars and approximately 6,200 more as reservists.
Sexual orientation is no longer a factor in recruitment.
Few institutions in Canada are as truly reflective of our society as the Canadian Forces. The Forces are committed to the status enjoyed by both French and English, and both languages are used administratively and in the conduct of operations. During their careers, military men and women are likely not only to be exposed to Canada's second official language, but to have an opportunity to learn it. Difficulties persist, but the Canadian Forces are, in many ways, a working example of bilingualism and have moved a long way towards meeting an important national objective. The same degree of success must be achieved in terms of ethnic diversity.