City Of Peterborough Recognizing Emancipation Day On August 1
/Emancipation Day, which brings awareness to the history of the enslavement of Black and Indigenous Peoples on these lands, and is an opportunity to recognize the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada and those who fought enslavement, is recognized in Canada on August 1.
File Photo.
August 1 marks the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect in Britain and its settler-colonial nation states around the world, including the colonies that would become Canada.
"Ending anti-black racism and discrimination is not a one-time project. It is work that requires ongoing efforts to address systemic barriers, challenge existing biases, and reimagine our collective culture,” said Reem Ali, Inclusion Officer. “We must take a deeper look into how Black people are navigating their belonging in this community through oppression and opportunity.”
A recording of a conversation with Ali and City Councillor Kemi Akapo can be viewed on the City’s Instagram account.
On August 1, Ali invites the community to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination.
This Emancipation Day:
Call out systemic anti-Black racism and discrimination;
Attend local events celebrating Black communities, both this weekend and throughout the year;
Use your social position to centre and amplify Black voices;
Support individuals and organizations fighting anti-Blackness;
Educate yourself about Emancipation Day and the racist treatment of Black people in Canada and across the world, including Heritage Canada’s online resource about Emancipation Day. [https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/emancipation-day.html]
