Statement from Regional Chair on acknowledging 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 celebrate Emancipation Day with a community event taking place at the Audley Recreation Centre in Ajax. This significant day originated on August 1, 1834, when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect, ending the slavery of people of African descent in Canada. On this day, we acknowledge the painful legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and recognize how it endures as systemic anti-Black racism today.

In Durham Region, we are committed to promoting safe, respectful and inclusive communities, and condemn anti-Black racism and other systems of oppression which deny individuals the right to equitable treatment.

Through the Region’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division and the Durham Region Anti-Racism Taskforce, important work is happening every single day to address racism within the communities the Region serves; work that is helping to ensure that the Region’s programs and services are equitable, promote social inclusion and reduce barriers.

In recognition of Emancipation Day, the Pan-African flag will be raised at Durham Regional Headquarters.

I encourage you to join us on August 1, from 4 to 7 p.m., for live performances, food vendors, children’s activities and more, at the Durham Region Emancipation Day celebration.

To learn more, visit durham.ca/EmancipationDay.”

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