Emancipation Day is observed annually in Canada, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British Empire on August 1, 1834. This significant day serves as a reminder of Canada’s historical role in ending the transatlantic slave trade and granting freedom to thousands of enslaved individuals.

Commemorating Emancipation Day through community events, class discussions, and an ant-racist approach is an important way to foster a collective commitment to inclusivity, justice, and social change in Canada

Emancipation Day is closely tied to the curriculum of NC’s SOCL1430 Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Canada course. This course covers topics such as allyship, culture, socio-economic status, gender identity and expression, sexuality, anti-racism, decolonization, reconciliation, immigration, age, ability, health, and religion, rooting curriculum in anti-oppressive practice. On August 1, students enrolled in the course will have an opportunity to explore and learn about various topics related to Emancipation Day, enriching their understanding of Canada’s past and its ongoing journey towards a more equitable and just society.

NC professors are also encouraging students to attend community events to recognize the day and expand their learning and to be part of preserving and honouring the shared history of Canada’s racialized communities.

This year, the NC community can participate in a variety of local events and exhibitions that delve into Black history, slavery in Canada, and Emancipation Day.

Please see below for a list of events and exhibitions:

• July 29 – Salem Chapel BME Church Open House: The Salem Chapel BME Church in St. Catharines was built by freedom seekers in 1885. One of its members was Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman and the church also continues to raise money for restoration work. On Saturday, July 29, the church will host a self-guided tour beginning at 12 p.m., and a tour talk by historian and trustee, Rochelle Bush, at 2 p.m.
  • For more information, click here.

• July 30 – Matter of Black and Black Owned 905 , Lakeside Park Emancipation Day festivities: Matter of Black, a Niagara-based organization, is planning events for Emancipation Day. This year’s festivities will take place at Lakeside Park in St. Catharines on Sunday, July 30. The event will run from noon until dusk, with events such as an Afrobeats workshop, dance workshops, children’s games, and music.
  • For more information and full schedule, click here.

• Accessible until November 2023 – Bound and Determined: Chloe Cooley, Enslavement, and the Fight for Freedom: This exhibition at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum explores the history of slavery in Canada and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Running until November 2023, the exhibition provides an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the history that led to the Slavery Abolition Act and Emancipation Day.
  • For more information, click here.

• Accessible year round – Voices of Freedom Tour: The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has set aside a significant site in the heart of the Old Town to understand, celebrate, and honour its Black history. Voices of Freedom is an experiential art installation designed to engage, educate, and challenge visitors about this most important aspect of our history. Voices from the past will tell their stories, enriching visitors’ understanding of how they shaped our town and nation.
  • For more information, click here.