What is Emancipation Day?
Emancipation Day is the day when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 became law across the British Empire, including Canada on August 1st, 1834. On this day, the practice of slavery officially ended for millions of African people and their descendants in Canada and around the world.
On March 24th, 2021, members of parliament unanimously voted to designate August 1st as Emancipation Day in Canada. On April 13th, 2021, the province of Nova Scotia followed the federal declaration by officially introducing legislation to annually recognize August 1st as Emancipation Day, the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British Empire, in Nova Scotia.
Why Celebrate Emancipation Day?
- Haligonians are encouraged to observe Emancipation Day as an opportunity to learn more about the history of African Nova Scotian people and communities, and to continue to address and eradicate systemic anti-Black racism.
- The day will also allow us, as a community, to reflect and acknowledge our shared history of the enslavement of people of African descent in Canada.
- Celebrating Emancipation Day will also provide us with an opportunity to maintain ongoing meaningful dialogue around race relations and inclusive society.
- Most importantly, the day should allow every citizen to begin to take action.
Commemorating Emancipation Day
Emancipation Day 2021 Events
As this year marks the inaugural Emancipation Day in Halifax, the municipality will be joining others across our region be to observe this special and important day. Some events scheduled for the week include:
- Official Proclamation by the Mayor on behalf of regional council | Tuesday, July 27
- Emancipation and Liberation: Where Do We Go From Here? Featuring Dr. Afua Cooper | Wednesday, July 28, 6 to 8 p.m.
- Raising of the Pan-African Flag at Grand Parade | Friday, July 30 at 10 a.m.
- An evening variety show to celebrate Emancipation Day hosted by GameChangers902 in partnership with Civic Events and the Office of Diversity & Inclusion/ANSAIO | Sunday, August 1, 6-9 p.m. at Grand Parade.
How can you recognize Emancipation Day?
- Attend and participate in events around the province.
- Engage in conversation around the history of enslavement and its impacts on our region and across the nation.
- Recognize and embrace the history of African Nova Scotians as part of our collective history.
- Find meaningful and respectful ways to remember the many souls lost during the transatlantic slave trade.