August 1 is Emancipation Day – Lincoln Pelham Public Library

In 2021, the Canadian government officially designated August 1 as Emancipation Day. This date marks the day slavery was abolished across the British Empire. Today it is a time to celebrate Black communities, learn about the history of enslavement in Canada, and reflect on opportunities to address anti-Black racism and discrimination.

Educate yourself:

Learn the story of slavery in Canada through the Canadian Museum of Human Rights.

Visit sites along Niagara’s Freedom Trail, including the Salem Chapel BME Church in St. Catharines.

Read books:

Here are a few recommended titles:

Gutter Child by Jael Richardson
Borrow the book | Read the eBook

Black Matters by Afua Cooper
Borrow the book

I Am Still Your Negro by Valerie Mason-John
Borrow the book | Read the eBook

The Skin We’re In: A Year of Black Resistance and Power by Desmond Cole
Borrow the book | Read the eBook | Listen to the audiobook

Watch movies:

Harriet
12 Years a Slave
The Book of Negroes

Attend local events:
Matter of Black and Black Owned 905, in partnership with the City of St. Catharines and the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, are hosting Emancipation Day activities. Find the full schedule here.

Land Acknowledgement Statement

We acknowledge these are the traditional lands and territories of the Hatiwendaronk, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabeg, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Six Nations of the Grand River, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties (No. 3) and by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum agreement.

Lincoln Pelham Public Library recognizes the contributions and stewardship of all Indigenous Peoples, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. We are committed to celebrating and sharing stories from Indigenous communities and creating space for education and dialogue as we collectively acknowledge hard truths and work toward reconciliation.