Col. James McKay steps down after fallout from a Facebook group tied to hateful posts by Canadian reserve soldiers in Ottawa. Investigations underway.
Brigade Leader Resigns Following Social Media Scandal
Col. James McKay, commander of the 33 Canadian Brigade Group, has officially stepped down after revelations about a private Facebook group where members of an Ottawa-based reserve unit allegedly posted hateful and offensive content. The resignation, confirmed by the Department of National Defence on July 21, follows a growing controversy that has shaken public confidence in the military’s culture and disciplinary systems.
Inappropriate Online Conduct Triggers Internal Fallout
The Facebook group, known as “Blue Hackle Mafia,” reportedly featured racist, misogynistic, antisemitic, and homophobic posts, including explicit photos and derogatory commentary about political figures. Members of the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa, a reserve unit under McKay’s command, were implicated in the group, which has since been shut down. The group’s existence came to light last December but gained national attention after screenshots were leaked in late June.
Leadership Accountability Prompts Early Exit
In an internal email to staff, McKay acknowledged his mishandling of the situation. He said he took on too many responsibilities and failed to act decisively when concerns first emerged. “My actions in dealing with the ‘Blue Hackle Mafia’ Facebook group did not meet [Canadian Armed Forces] and my personal expectations,” McKay wrote. He added that his early departure would allow the brigade to refocus on its core mission: training and readiness.
Investigations Continue as Military Faces Scrutiny
Lt.-Col. Ryan Hendy, commander of the implicated unit, has been reassigned pending the outcome of investigations by both military police and the army. Initial inquiries in December 2023 did not result in charges, but the military reopened the investigation in June after media inquiries surfaced. The House of Commons transport committee is also reviewing related matters surrounding oversight and military justice.
Systemic Issues in Military Culture Resurface
Lt.-Gen. Mike Wright, in a statement released Monday, said the situation is “disturbing and disappointing” but emphasized the importance of accountability. Defence analyst Charlotte Duval-Lantoine warned that the case exposes persistent weaknesses in how the military handles racism, homophobia, and online hate. “If we look at other controversies around sexual misconduct, the military police has been a challenge,” she said, questioning whether mechanisms for addressing hateful conduct are adequate.
Pattern of Online Extremism Raises Red Flags
This is not the first time the Canadian military has grappled with online hate within its ranks. In 2020, former army commander Wayne Eyre issued a directive demanding that soldiers report any instances of racism or hateful conduct. That policy followed multiple cases, including a reservist linked to extremist groups and another jailed in the U.S. for plotting violent attacks. Eyre’s directive warned of consequences for failing to report such behaviour—but recent events suggest challenges in enforcement persist.
Path Forward Remains Unclear
It remains uncertain whether McKay will remain in the Canadian Armed Forces or who will take over his role temporarily. Meanwhile, the military has pledged to continue its internal reforms, though experts caution that addressing deep-rooted cultural issues will require more than policy statements. As investigations proceed, the case is being closely watched as a test of the military’s ability to uphold discipline, transparency, and public trust.
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