York Region recognizes Emancipation Day

On behalf of York Regional Council and The Regional Municipality of York, I am pleased to recognize Friday, August 1, 2025 as Emancipation Day, marking the abolition of slavery in Canada.

On this date in 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect, freeing more than 800,000 enslaved Africans across the British Empire, including here in Canada. Emancipation Day is a time to reflect on the painful legacy of slavery, honour the courage of those who resisted injustice and acknowledge the ongoing fight against anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination.

York Region is committed to building welcoming and inclusive communities, learning from our past and celebrating our diversity. Emancipation Day represents a path forward towards justice and reconciliation, encouraging all residents to contribute to a strong, caring, safe York Region for all.

Eric Jolliffe
York Region Chairman and CEO

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