Blacks who considered Canada their permanent home recognized the importance of turning away from the United States and embracing British values and instituations. They affirmed their Anglo-Canadian identity with regular displays of patriotism and loyalty to the British Crown, including military service during the War of 1812 and the Rebellion of 1837. The outbreak of the Crimean War between Russia and Britain provided another occasion for patriotic demonstraions. Blacks in Chatham, led by Issac D. Shadd and Harvey C. Jackson, expressed their support of Britian and offered their services to the crown at a public meeting held in Chatham's First Baptist Church on 23 June 1855. The resolutions, although addressed to the Queen, were intended to remind all black Canadians, especially recent arrivals from slavery, of the benefits of their adopted homeland.

1. Resolved - That we, the Colored people of Kent County, Canada West, assembled in Mass Meeting, this 23rd of June, feeling indebted to Her Most Gracious Majesty, and Her Government, make known our willingness and determination to assist in arresting the usurpation of Russia or any other power.

2. Resolved - That after having been subjected to the iniquitous system of Yankee oppression, in having the privilege of a home on British Territory extended to us, in common with all others of Her adopted subjects, the duty devolves upon us to aid and every case where we would be in any way serviceable.

3. Resolved - That in consideration of the difficulties existing between Her Majesty's Government and the Government of Russia, and forming as we do a portion of the subjects of the former, we deeply sympathize with Her Most Gracious Majesty in the loss of those brave and gallant troops who waded in the blood of thousands with invincible courage, to break the iron arm of Russian oppression.

4. Resolved - That it is the duty of every man to act to the above Resolution, and each and every one who is not willing and does not feel it to be his duty to stand in defence of the Government that shields him from oppression, is not worthy of the esteem of the Canadian people, and should not be allowed the privileges of British subjects.