Mississauga Commemorates 190th Emancipation Day Anniversary with Special Events

Mississauga, ON – Mississauga is set to honor Emancipation Day with a series of impactful events as the city celebrates the 190th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Emancipation Day, observed annually on August 1, serves as a powerful reminder of the struggle for freedom, the courage of those who fought for liberation, and the ongoing battle against anti-Black racism and discrimination.

This year’s commemorative activities will commence with a poignant flag-raising ceremony at Mississauga Celebration Square. At 11 a.m., the Pan-African flag will be raised to acknowledge the significance of Emancipation Day. The ceremony will be attended by notable figures, including Mayor Carolyn Parrish, Consul General of Jamaica Mr. Lloyd Wilks, and members of the Black Caucus Alliance. Additionally, Mississauga’s clock tower will be illuminated in the colors of black, red, and green in the evening, further emphasizing the importance of the day.

In addition to the flag-raising, the community is invited to delve deeper into Black history through guided tours offered at Bradley Museum and Benares Historic House. These tours will highlight the rich contributions and historical experiences of Black individuals in Ontario.

The Mississauga Library has curated a special reading list to celebrate Black achievements and contributions in Canada, encouraging residents to explore these significant works and gain a greater understanding of the Black community’s impact on the country.

Residents are also encouraged to stay informed about the City’s efforts to combat systemic racism. The city is committed to addressing these issues through the Anti-Black and Indigenous Resolution 207 and the newly released Black Community Engagement (BCE) Report. These initiatives reflect Mississauga’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for all its residents.

Emancipation Day stands as a testament to resilience and progress. By participating in these events, the community of Mississauga can reflect on the past, honor the present, and continue striving towards a more just future.

For more details on the Emancipation Day events and the City’s commitment to addressing systemic racism, visit the Emancipation Day webpage.