Emancipation Day marks the liberation of enslaved persons throughout various regions of the world. It serves as a solemn reminder of the struggles of enslaved individuals and their unyielding resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable adversities. This important day is observed in different ways and holds varying significance in many countries, including Canada, where it honours the tireless efforts of individuals and communities who fought for freedom and justice.
In Canadian history, Emancipation Day goes back to August 1, 1834; the day when the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect, outlawing slavery throughout the British Empire, including Canada. Many Canadians pride themselves on their nation's diverse and inclusive values, which are deeply rooted in this history of tireless activism against enslavement and racial discrimination. Therefore, Emancipation Day also serves to educate Canadians about this critical time in history and fosters discussions on equality, justice, and the importance of preserving these ideals in today's society.
On Emancipation Day in Canada, communities generally come together to commemorate the day through various events, such as parades, vigils, concerts, and panel discussions on pertinent topics surrounding emancipation, race relations, and social justice. These events are held across various cities, including Toronto and Windsor, with the primary focus on reflecting, remembering, and celebrating the progress Canada has made in dismantling institutionalized discrimination. As of March 24, 2021, Emancipation Day is officially recognized across Canada, and on August 1 each year, Canadians join in honouring this important observance.
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John Graves Simcoe’s legislation in 1793 made it illegal to import slaves into Canada. Called the Act Against Slavery, this legislation made it so that any enslaved person entering Canada would automatically be freed. Simcoe's legislation also ensured that the children of slaves would be born free.
After the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, tens of thousands of enslaved African Americans would make their way to Canada from the United States with the help of abolitionists. They used interconnected routes and secret paths, commonly known as the Underground Railroad, to help thousands of African Americans become free.
According to the Canadian Museum of History, there were about 4,200 slaves in Canada between 1671 and 1834.
By the time of the British Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, there were around 800,000 enslaved people in the British colonies.
When the British Parliament passed the Slavery Abolition Act, they granted financial compensation to slave owners for the loss of their slaves. Approximately £20 million (worth around £300 billion today) was paid out, with no financial compensation provided to the liberated slaves.
Brazil was the last country in the Western Hemisphere to abolish slavery. It happened in 1888 with the passage of the Lei Áurea (Golden Law), which set all slaves free without compensation to their former owners.
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Travel to Toronto for the Caribana festival. It is said to be the biggest street festival in North America. Also known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, it is a festival of Caribbean culture and tradition. It recognizes the impact slavery had on Caribbean nations and celebrates their struggles for freedom.
Watch Journey to Justice (2000). This is a documentary that explores the pioneering steps of black Canadians in Canada’s journey to equality, touching on the history of black emancipation.
