Aug. 1, 2021, has been proclaimed Emancipation Day in the Town of Amherst.
The date marks the 187th anniversary of the day the Slavery Abolition Act became law in the British Empire. The act ended the practice of slavery for millions of African people and their descendants living in the empire, including those in what became Canada.
“By observing this day, all Canadians, Nova Scotians and Amherstonians can acknowledge and have discussions about our shared history, which includes the
enslavement of people of African ancestry here in Canada,” Kogon said, while signing the proclamation on behalf of the Amherst town council on Aug. 30, 2021.
“I would encourage everyone to learn about and recognize that shared history as we work together with all people toward collective healing and a more socially just society.”
The mayor noted that earlier this year the Canadian and Nova Scotia governments unanimously voted to designate Aug. 1 as Emancipation Day.
Kogon also encouraged people to learn about the United Nations International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, which is held annually on Aug. 23. More details on this day can be found at: https://www.un.org/en/observances/decade-people-african-descent/slave-trade
To help recognize Emancipation Day, the town is presenting a virtual presentation that can be viewed on the town and recreation department Facebook pages on Aug. 1.
More information on Emancipation Day can be found at http://emancipationdayns.ca/
