A woman is appointed as Canada’s top soldier for the first time ever

On Wednesday, Canada appointed a woman to the position of top soldier for the first time in history, advancing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s campaign for women to hold the highest positions.

On July 18, Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan, who has been leading the struggle against systemic misogyny and sexism in the military, will become the head of the defense staff.

During her 35 years in the army, Carignan—who was formerly a military engineer—has commanded troops in Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, and Syria.

“Over the course of her career, her exceptional leadership qualities, commitment to excellence, and dedication to service have been a tremendous asset to our Armed Forces,” Trudeau stated in a statement.

As Carignan assumes office, friends are pressuring Canada to increase defense spending. The military is having trouble filling positions and has been sluggish to replace out-of-date gear.

The Navy Chief stated in November of last year that the service was in “a critical state” and might not be able to perform its fundamental functions by 2024.

Since becoming power in late 2015, Trudeau—an outspoken feminist—has worked to advance measures that advance gender equality.

Brenda Lucki became the first female commander of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 2018 after his appointment. The formal representative of the British monarchy, the governor general, has had two female governors general in the past. Both were named by Trudeau.