Emancipation Day: Honouring the Past, Owning the Present

August 1 marks Emancipation Day in Canada, when slavery was officially abolished across the British Empire in 1834.

I see this day not just as history, but as a reminder that resilience and resistance built the foundations we stand on. It’s personal and collective, about honouring the stories erased, and recognizing the systems that still need work. As someone who values justice and inclusion, I use this time to pause, reflect, and keep learning.

Let’s continue the conversations, the support, and the action needed to build truly equitable communities; starting with understanding the past and choosing not to forget it.

Useful Links & Resources:

• Parks Canada: Emancipation Day Celebrations – A National Historic Event
  Learn how Emancipation Day has been commemorated through the decades and why it was designated a national historic event in Canada.

• Canada.ca: Official Government Recognition of Emancipation Day
  Understand the official recognition by the House of Commons in 2021 and what it means for all Canadians today.

• Durham Region: Emancipation Day
  Durham Region honours Emancipation Day through events, community partnerships, and public engagement.