Region of Durham celebrates Emancipation Day

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“On August 1, Durham Region will recognize Emancipation Day with an exciting community celebration at Esplanade Park in Pickering. This event is an opportunity to celebrate our region’s rich diversity, learn more about emancipation and recognize its legacy.

August 1 holds significance as the day slavery was abolished in Canada in 1834. While this marked the end of a dark chapter in our country’s history for people of African descent, it put into motion the start of a journey toward action, systemic change and healing. Incremental progress has been made in the nearly two centuries since abolition but there is more work to be done to dismantle oppressive systems and address anti-Black racism in all its forms.

In Durham Region, this important work is led by the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division and the Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce—work that is helping to strengthen our communities through celebrations, initiatives and programs that support access to equal opportunities.

Durham Region has proclaimed August 1 as Emancipation Day. To honour those who have built a legacy of freedom, the Pan-African flag will be raised at Regional Headquarters.

I encourage you to join us in Pickering at the Durham Region Emancipation Day celebration on August 1, from 3 to 8 p.m., for live performances, food vendors, an art exhibition and more. Let us listen, learn and reflect so that we may find ways to actively address anti-Black racism and remove systemic barriers to build a more welcoming and inclusive future.”

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.