August 1 marks the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect across what was then the British Empire.
Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination. Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada. Canadians are not always aware that Black and Indigenous Peoples were once enslaved on the land that is now Canada.
Those who fought enslavement were pivotal in shaping our society to be as diverse as it is today. Therefore, each August 1, Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination.
Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada. (Government of Canada)