Emancipation Day

August 1st is Emancipation Day in Canada. Emancipation Day marks the abolishment of the enslavement of African peoples in all British colonies worldwide. Countries such as Barbados, Jamaica and Grenada have been marking it for decades, but in Canada it was only formally recognized in Ontario in 2008. It took another decade before it was marked across Canada. In the United States, Juneteenth — also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day — is celebrated every June 19.

The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists chapter in Canada will be co-hosting the annual Emancipation Day Underground Freedom Train Ride which will be held online this year. Symbolizing the role of the Underground Railroad within Canada’s history, everyone is welcome on this Underground Freedom Train Ride to celebrate Emancipation Day. Tune in for the event on Friday, July 31 at 10:30 p.m. EDT here.