The Area of Durham celebrated Emancipation Day within the metropolis of Pickering on August 1st, 2024, at The Esplanade Park, marking a big day in Canadian historical past. The occasion drew a various crowd, together with native dignitaries, group leaders, and residents, all gathered to honor the abolition of slavery and mirror on its lasting legacy.
Mayor Kevin Ashe opened the occasion with a heartfelt welcome, recognizing the significance of Emancipation Day in Canada’s historical past. “On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act took impact, liberating over 800,000 enslaved African folks in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, and South Africa,” Ashe mentioned.
“At present, we collect to acknowledge this act as a vital step in acknowledging African Canadian historical past as a part of the broader Canadian story.”
Mayor Ashe highlighted the continuing wrestle towards anti-Black racism and the necessity for steady schooling in regards to the darkish components of Canada’s historical past. “We should acknowledge that the legacy of slavery endures at present within the type of intergenerational trauma and protracted anti-Black racism. Our work is way from over, and we should proceed to confront and fight these injustices in our metropolis,” he urged.
Ashe additionally thanked the quite a few group teams, together with the Pickering Anti-Black Racism Process Drive, for his or her efforts in enhancing alternatives for Black residents and addressing systemic racism. He expressed gratitude to the Area of Durham’s Range, Fairness, and Inclusivity Division for organizing the occasion, emphasizing the importance of group unity in combating hate and fostering inclusivity.
Regional Chair John Henry echoed Ashe’s sentiments, acknowledging the progress made for the reason that abolition of slavery whereas recognizing the work that also must be accomplished.
Deputy Mayor Linda Prepare dinner delivered an inspiring speech, drawing on teachings from her buddy, Malty Montgomery Johnson, and Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey.
Prepare dinner emphasised the precept of “I and I” from Rastafarian tradition, highlighting the idea that the Creator is inside all folks, signifying equality and oneness.
“At present, we rejoice and honor the resistance and resilience of the enslaved who fought for his or her freedom,” she mentioned.
The occasion featured an African ancestral blessing by Kofi Morris, founding father of Cosmic Wellness and Holistic Assist, who engaged the viewers in a call-and-response ceremony. Morris invoked the spirits of ancestors, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all folks and the significance of studying from historical past to construct a greater future.
All through the day, attendees loved numerous performances, together with the singing of the Black Anthem by Nanza Malcolm-Joseph and a collection of youth-led actions and artwork exhibitions. The Youth Motion Group (YAG) from the Durham Group Motion Group showcased their anti-violence program via artwork, with contributions from younger artists.
The celebration was a reminder of the continuing journey in the direction of justice, equality, and inclusivity. As Mayor Ashe concluded, “By understanding and studying from our previous, we are able to construct a greater future.
The Emancipation Day celebration in Pickering not solely honored the previous but additionally reaffirmed the group’s dedication to a extra simply and inclusive future for all.
