On August 1, Emancipation Day, Unifor recognizes this powerful quote from Jean Augustine, the first Black woman to serve as a member of Parliament and the 2018 recipient of Unifor’s Nelson Mandela Award, that serves as an important reminder that historical change cannot take place without collective action, backed by solidarity, unity and mobilization.
The House of Commons voted unanimously on March 24, 2021, to officially designate the first day of August as Emancipation Day in Canada. It marks the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect, creating a pathway to freeing enslaved people in British colonies across the globe and here in Canada.
We pause to honour the historic end of slavery and reflect on the ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and freedom. This day marks more than a chapter in our history—it is a call to action, a reminder of the resilience of those who fought for liberation, and a recognition of the work still ahead of us.
On Emancipation Day, we reflect on the significant strides made towards freedom and equality in Canada, while acknowledging the ongoing struggles faced by Black and Indigenous communities against systemic oppression and inequity.
True freedom includes economic justice, dignity at work, and the right to organize without fear. The fight against exploitation—whether in the form of slavery, wage theft, or unsafe working conditions—has always been intertwined with the labour movement.
We must leverage our collective strength and solidarity to advocate for policy changes, support social justice initiatives, and amplify the voices of marginalized populations. Let us renew our commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable society where every individual is truly free and has the opportunity to thrive.
Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada. On this day, Canadians are invited to educate and engage in the ongoing fight against both anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination.
Please see the list below for a list of Emancipation Day events:
Oakville, Ont.
Aug. 4, 2025
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Oakville Museum
8 Navy St.
https://ccah.ca/event/emancipation-day/
Cambridge, Ont.
July 26, 2025
1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Soper Park
120 Shade St.
Free admission
https://www.rhythmbluescambridge.com/inaugural-emancipation-celebration-2-1
Toronto
Freedom Train
July 31, 2025
10 p.m.
Union Station
https://blackhurstcc.org/emancipation-day-underground-freedom-train-ride/
Hamilton, Ont.
Aug. 1, 2025
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
City Hall
71 Main St. W.
Brampton, Ont.
Aug. 4, 2025
1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Chinguacousy Park
9050 Bramalea Rd.
Free admission
https://jambana.com/
