Emancipation Day: Remembering our history of slavery

the Pan-African flag blowing in the wind on a flag pole

In 2021, Nova Scotia officially designated August 1 as Emancipation Day, a time to reflect and acknowledge our shared history of the enslavement of people of African descent in Canada.

Why do we recognize Emancipation Day?

On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 became law, officially ending the practice of slavery across the British Empire.

Slavery was foundational in the systemic anti-Black racism that impacts people of African descent today. Recognizing Emancipation Day provides an opportunity to maintain ongoing meaningful dialogue around race relations and inclusion, and to celebrate the diverse heritage, culture and contributions of people of African descent across the region.

In recognition of Emancipation Day:

Emancipation Day 2025 Events

  • Provincial Flag Raising
    Friday, Aug. 1, 2025 | 9 a.m. | Province House, 1726 Hollis St. Halifax, NS

     

  • Emancipation Day Event
    Friday, Aug. 1, 2025 | 11 a.m. | 1521 Lower Water St. Halifax, NS

     

Our commitment

The municipality remains deeply committed to addressing the anti-Black racism that continues to exist within our organization and the communities we serve.

In the fall of 2024, we proudly launched the inaugural Anti-Black Racism Grants Program, designed to empower African Nova Scotian communities and residents of African descent to lead grassroots initiatives focused on dismantling anti-Black racism. Through this program, 13 community-led projects were awarded funding each driving meaningful change through education, advocacy, cultural celebration, and community engagement.

We are committed to building on this momentum by working in genuine partnership with community, listening with intention, and investing in sustainable solutions that advance justice, inclusion, and equity. These efforts are not symbolic gestures they are essential steps toward lasting, systemic transformation.

 

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