A group of former Afghan-Canadian cultural and language advisers who served alongside Canadian troops during the war in Afghanistan has filed a $50 million lawsuit against the federal government, alleging systemic discrimination and abandonment following their service.
Filed in Ontario Superior Court on May 30, the suit represents 30 men—Canadian citizens of Afghan origin—who were hired by the Department of National Defence (DND) to support combat troops during Canada’s mission in Kandahar. Known as LCAs (Language and Cultural Advisers), they provided essential services including translation, cultural intelligence, and Taliban monitoring. While civilians, they operated under combat conditions and often at great personal risk.
The claim argues that the government recruited LCAs because of their ethnic and linguistic backgrounds, but then failed to offer them the same benefits or protections as military personnel. Upon returning to Canada, many faced post-traumatic stress disorder and injuries, yet were denied care and compensation because their contracts had ended and they were not technically enlisted soldiers.
According to the statement of claim, the Defence Department “actively frustrated and undermined” their post-service injury claims by withholding key information and imposing confidentiality restrictions, leading to the rejection of many WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) cases.
Despite high-level acknowledgment of their importance, including from the Canadian Forces Ombudsman, the federal government has not responded to repeated calls for compensation. Advocates argue that their treatment amounts to a violation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Some LCAs, like Jamail Jushan, who served for five years and suffers from PTSD, continue to advocate for recognition. “I sacrificed myself. I sacrificed my family. I love this country,” he said. Others, like Abdul Hamidi, are disillusioned and feel betrayed.
The ombudsman previously recommended a compensation framework similar to one used for cadets injured in a 1970s training accident. However, the DND has refused to implement such a program.
As legal proceedings begin, this case could set a precedent for how Canada treats civilians who take on high-risk roles in military operations.
Swifteradio.com
