Toronto Kicks Off Emancipation Month with Year-Long Campaign

Toronto – In a ceremony at Toronto City Hall, Mayor Olivia Chow and Councillor Chris Moise (Toronto Centre), Chair of the City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism Committee, officially proclaimed August as Emancipation Month. The proclamation was marked by the raising of the Black Liberation Flag, symbolizing the city’s commitment to acknowledging and celebrating the legacy of Black communities in Toronto.

Since 1998, Toronto has recognized August 1 as Emancipation Day, a day commemorating the abolition of slavery in the British Empire, including Canada. In 2019, this recognition was extended to cover the entire month of August, promoting a more extensive celebration and reflection on the history and contributions of Black Canadians.

Launch of “Confront the Past, Change the Future” Campaign

The highlight of this year’s Emancipation Month is the launch of a year-long public education campaign, “Confront the Past, Change the Future.” Running until December 31, 2025, this initiative focuses on the enduring legacies of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and aims to advance the human rights of people of African descent. The campaign aligns with the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), reinforcing Toronto’s commitment to combating anti-Black racism and promoting equity.

🎉✊ Honour Emancipation Month with us! This August, we honour the resilience and contributions of Toronto’s Black communities. Join events across the city that highlight our journey towards equality.

Learn More: https://t.co/oZyiC7mIPz. #EmancipationMonthTO@CABR_Toronto pic.twitter.com/MNJ8R1EXp6

— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) August 1, 2024

Emancipation Month Events

The City of Toronto has organized a series of events and activities throughout August to engage and educate the public:

• Black Culinary Experiences: On August 24 and 25, residents can indulge in Black culinary experiences through stories, workshops, and a walking tour. Additionally, Fort York National Historic Site will host a marketplace on August 14 and 24, featuring a variety of food and gifts from Black-owned businesses.
• Emancipation Month Book List: In partnership with the Toronto Public Library (TPL), the City has curated a book list to encourage reflection and education on anti-Black racism and the contributions of Black communities. This list aims to foster deeper understanding and dialogue among Toronto residents.
• Film Screening: The City and TPL will present the film “Joseph” (2020), which tells the story of a Jamaican doctor discovering his African roots. This screening will take place on August 23 at the North York Central Library, commemorating the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition.
• Toronto Sign Lighting: Throughout August, the Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square will be illuminated in the colors of the Black Liberation Flag—red, black, and green—serving as a daily reminder of the city’s celebration and commitment to Black liberation.

A Message from City Leaders

Mayor Olivia Chow emphasized the importance of Emancipation Month in addressing systemic barriers and promoting racial justice. “By recognizing Emancipation Month, we reaffirm our commitment to addressing systemic barriers faced by Black communities in Toronto. This month provides a vital opportunity to educate and raise awareness about the legacy of slavery, systemic racism, and the ongoing journey towards racial justice. Together, we celebrate Black strength, resistance, and resilience, and celebrate the contribution of Black communities in Toronto.”

Councillor Chris Moise echoed the mayor’s sentiments, encouraging residents to participate in the month’s activities. “I encourage residents to participate in Emancipation Month and join us in celebrating the raising of the Black Liberation Flag. These activities are part of the daily work the City is doing through its current Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism and its creation of a new ten-year Action Plan. By learning from the experiences of the past, we can build a better future.”

For more information about Emancipation Month events, visit toronto.ca/emancipation. The Mayor’s Emancipation Month proclamation and further details on the City’s renewed 10-year Action Plan to Confront Anti-Black Racism can be found on the City’s Proclamations webpage and the Toronto Anti-Black Racism Action Plan website.