Interesting analysis.. Trying to build an organizational identity and purpose. on misappropriated history. Does CSIS even now know what its real purpose is?
Thanks Brian. It is a great question. While the issue of the video is perhaps silly, I do think this is a bit worrying precisely because of the question you raise. And if CSIS thinks it is some how “like SOE,” that is a pretty big disconnect from how Canadians perceive CSIS’s role.
Despite my limited knowledge of the origins and present mission of CSIS, I find the claims of CSIS to have a connection to the SOE to be illogical. No, you're not being picky. But of interest to me is the role of the SOE and Camp X in the Second World War; in particular, the achievements of Sir William Stephenson (as seen in Sir William Stephenson: The Uncut Interview which followed the CSIS video on Youtube). This is a piece of Canadian history that should be taught in elementary school (in my time, it may have been too "fresh"). Interestingly, there was a TV Drama Series that aired on CBC a few years ago called X Company. Prior to watching the series, I had never heard of Camp X or the SOE. That's sad.
You're exactly right, Susan. Canada does have an important and remarkable intelligence history! We need to study it and, in some cases, celebrate it. I have some active Access to Information Act requests for material related to both Camp X and Canada's coordination with Stephenson' British Security Co-ordination. I hope they will be available soon. But the fact that this material from the Second World War is still closed is a bit silly!
Super interesting stuff Tim. I absolutely agree that CSIS seems to be in a weird place in regards to its own history; and if what I've seen from former practitioners is true, this relates back to how it conducts its mission. All in all, I would hope that could be used as benefit more than anything, rather than remaining a detriment. The Service is in a unique position to represent itself in a way that is different from the Allied intel agencies and really stand out. Again, fantastic work!
Interesting analysis.. Trying to build an organizational identity and purpose. on misappropriated history. Does CSIS even now know what its real purpose is?
Thanks Brian. It is a great question. While the issue of the video is perhaps silly, I do think this is a bit worrying precisely because of the question you raise. And if CSIS thinks it is some how “like SOE,” that is a pretty big disconnect from how Canadians perceive CSIS’s role.
Despite my limited knowledge of the origins and present mission of CSIS, I find the claims of CSIS to have a connection to the SOE to be illogical. No, you're not being picky. But of interest to me is the role of the SOE and Camp X in the Second World War; in particular, the achievements of Sir William Stephenson (as seen in Sir William Stephenson: The Uncut Interview which followed the CSIS video on Youtube). This is a piece of Canadian history that should be taught in elementary school (in my time, it may have been too "fresh"). Interestingly, there was a TV Drama Series that aired on CBC a few years ago called X Company. Prior to watching the series, I had never heard of Camp X or the SOE. That's sad.
You're exactly right, Susan. Canada does have an important and remarkable intelligence history! We need to study it and, in some cases, celebrate it. I have some active Access to Information Act requests for material related to both Camp X and Canada's coordination with Stephenson' British Security Co-ordination. I hope they will be available soon. But the fact that this material from the Second World War is still closed is a bit silly!
Super interesting stuff Tim. I absolutely agree that CSIS seems to be in a weird place in regards to its own history; and if what I've seen from former practitioners is true, this relates back to how it conducts its mission. All in all, I would hope that could be used as benefit more than anything, rather than remaining a detriment. The Service is in a unique position to represent itself in a way that is different from the Allied intel agencies and really stand out. Again, fantastic work!
Thanks so much for this. Yes, I think it will take some creativity but this could be done — and with benefit!