Today is Emancipation Day. An important historic milestone that marks the 190th anniversary of the end of slavery in Canada and across the British Empire. This is a day to remember and honour those who lost their lives due to the atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade and celebrate the strength and resilience of Black communities across the country.  

Since 2021, Canadians have officially recognized the end of this dark and painful chapter in our country’s history, the effects of which are still felt today.  Though slavery was outlawed in 1834, discrimination, prejudice and segregation continued for years, causing generations of pain and suffering for so many. Even today, lost opportunities, systemic barriers and unequal access are a harsh reality for many in the Black community. Emancipation Day reminds us all of the ongoing anti-Black racism within our society and encourages us to identify and address hatred and discrimination. 

Today I invite everyone in our community to reflect on and engage in the ongoing fight against racism, discrimination and unfairness. Anti-Black racism is unacceptable and we must all work together to eliminate discrimination in all its forms in our community.  

To help create a place where everyone belongs, I encourage you to learn more about anti-racism and anti-oppression concepts and to create your own anti-oppression action plan by checking out our free eBook Building Community: Introduction to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Also, take a moment today to find out about the deep and rich history of the Black community in Guelph, and celebrate the unique and remarkable contributions of Black Canadians to our country. 

By acknowledging our past, we can work together to build an anti-racist future where everyone can succeed and thrive. 

• Indira Naidoo-Harris
  Associate Vice-President, Diversity & Human Rights