Hansen: Second Annual Emancipation Day a Time for Action

HALIFAX– NDP African Nova Scotian Affairs spokesperson Suzy Hansen made the following statement ahead of Emancipation Day on August 1:

“Emancipation Day is the day when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 became law across the British Empire, including Canada, on August 1st, 1834. On this day, the practice of slavery officially ended for millions of African people and their descendants in Canada and around the world.

This will be the second year Nova Scotia recognizes this important event after the province introduced legislation last year to annually recognize August 1st as Emancipation Day.

Emancipation Day is an opportunity to learn more about the history of African Nova Scotian people and communities, and to continue to address and eradicate systemic anti-Black racism.

The day will also allow us, as a community, to reflect and acknowledge our shared history of the enslavement of people of African descent in Canada and provide us with an opportunity to maintain ongoing meaningful dialogue around race relations.

Most importantly, the day should be an opportunity for everyone to begin to take action on these important matters. I hope everyone takes the time on Monday to join in the celebrations of this day and take action on eradicating systemic anti-black racism.”

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