Emancipation Day is today, August 1
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.
On March 24, 2021, August 1 was unanimously designated by the House of Commons as Emancipation Day in Canada to mark the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 on August 1, 1834, in many countries that were a part of the British Empire. On March 23, 2022, the Prince Edward Island Legislature followed by unanimously passing a bill to recognize Emancipation Day on PEI.
Emancipation Day celebrates the strength, courage, and perseverance of people of African descent in Canada, recognizes their struggles to end enslavement, and acknowledges their contributions towards Canadian society. Canadians and Islanders are invited to reflect, educate, and engage in the ongoing fight against both anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination.
On August 1, Emancipation Day will be marked by the Black Cultural Society of PEI with the following events:
- Virtual tour of The Door of No Return on Gor茅e Island (Senegal) at Beaconsfield Carriage House from 12 noon鈥�1:30 pm
- Emancipation Day 2024 Celebration at The Bog (Rochford Square) in Charlottetown from 5:00鈥�8:00 pm. There will be entertainment, and attendees can enjoy a series of activities, games, food, and more at this all-ages event. All are welcome.
