Emancipation Day is August 1

Mayor Leal has issued the following statement for Emancipation Day.

“August 1 is a day to honour the strength, resilience, and enduring contributions of people of African descent who were enslaved in what is now Canada. From Nova Scotia to Upper Canada, generations were denied their freedom, dignity, and identity. Yet, through resistance, perseverance, and community-building, they helped shape the nation we live in today,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. 

“As we recognize Emancipation Day and observe the month of August, we acknowledge not only the brutal realities of slavery, but also the enduring courage of those who resisted, survived, and built paths to freedom. 

“It is our duty to remember, to teach, and to ensure that the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us are never forgotten.  

“This day is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to face the true and complex history of slavery, to reflect deeply and to recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive, and equitable future. 

Resources: Canadian Heritage - Emancipation Day