August 1 marks Emancipation Day in Canada – a solemn and powerful reminder of the historic day in 1834 when the Slavery Abolition Act laid the foundation for a pathway to freedom for enslaved people. On this day, we reflect on the enduring, painful legacy of slavery, colonialism, and anti-Black racism, and we honour the strength, resilience, and contributions of Black communities across this country.
At University of Guelph, we recognize that while the abolition of slavery did not mark the end of systemic anti-Black racism it’s an important reminder of the collective responsibility we all have to eradicate racism and discrimination in our community. Building an inclusive campus takes every single one of us, working together to create a place where everyone belongs. As a university committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and decolonization, we must continue to confront the harsh realities of racism – not only in our history, but in our present and build a strong path forward for everyone.
Emancipation Day is a call to action. It invites each of us to reflect on how we uphold justice, equity, and dignity for all. It challenges us all to listen to the voices in our Black communities, to engage with difficult truths, and to take meaningful steps toward dismantling racism in all its forms.
So today, and every day, I invite every member of our campus community to learn more about anti-racism and anti-oppression concepts and to create your own anti-oppression action plan. You can do this by checking out the Office of Diversity and Human Right’s, free eBook, Building Community: Introduction to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Also, take a moment to explore McLaughlin Library’s digital collection – The Heart of Healing: Black Love in Focus, a collection celebrating black love, healing, resilience and connection.
Finally, I invite you to 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.
Today, and every day, let us honour the freedom and humanity of those who were enslaved and reaffirm our commitment to building a more just and inclusive future for generations to come.
- Indira Naidoo-Harris
Associate Vice-President, Diversity & Human Rights