York Region Recognizes Emancipation Day

On behalf of York Regional Council and The Regional Municipality of York, I am pleased to recognize Tuesday, August 1, 2023, as Emancipation Day and commemorate the abolition of slavery in Canada.

On this date 189 years ago, the Slavery Abolition Act, an Act of the British Parliament came into effect, officially abolishing slavery and freeing more than 800,000 Africans across the British Empire, including Canada.

In recognizing Emancipation Day, we acknowledge the dark history of slavery and its persisting consequences in Canada. We remember the injustices forced upon people of African descent, the millions of lives lost and the fearless resistance fighters who advocates for greater equity.

Marked annually on August 1, Emancipation Day is a time to reflect, engage and learn more about the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and discrimination. It also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the resiliency and perseverance of Black communities in Canada and honour those who fought enslavement.

As one of the fastest growing and most diverse communities in Canada, York Region remains committed to building welcoming and inclusive communities for all. This means learning from the mistakes of our shared past and ensuring we continue to build communities where differences are celebrated and where all residents can live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination.

Recognizing and celebrating Emancipation Day represents a path forward towards justice and reconciliation – a path of education, understanding and reflection. I hope this day can encourage all residents to continue building a strong, safe, caring York Region for everyone.

Wayne Emmerson
York Region Chairman and CEO

-30-

Media Contact:

Corporate Communications, The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 1-877-464-9675, ext. 71234
Email: [email protected]