Recognizing Emancipation Day 2026

Every year on August 1, Canadians are invited to observe Emancipation Day. This marks the day in 1834 when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect, freeing more than 800,000 enslaved people of African descent in the British Empire, including parts of Canada, the Caribbean and South America.

On August 5, residents from across Durham Region gathered at Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park, in Oshawa, to recognize Emancipation Day 2026. Under sunny skies, people came together to learn, reflect and celebrate, guided by this year’s theme—Forward Together: Freedom, Culture, Community.

Throughout the afternoon and evening, the park was alive with connection, heritage and togetherness. Families, friends and neighbours had the opportunity to learn about local resources. They could explore a vibrant vendor market, featuring products and services that showcased exceptional skill, innovation, and creativity. Tasty treats were also onsite for attendees to enjoy.

Spoken word artist Greg Frankson, African-Caribbean drummer Negus Medhin, and Afro-Caribbean dance group Afiwi Groove School filled the event stage with inspiring performances. DJ Dreadie Love also spun beats.

As the event ended, people left with a sense of joyfulness, hope and pride. The Emancipation Day celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the importance of freedom and the progress still needed to achieve equity and inclusion for people of African descent. It was also a powerful reminder that culture and community are strongest when everyone comes together. 

Through learning, celebration and a shared commitment to inclusion, Durham Region continues moving toward a future where everyone feels valued, respected and truly free.

The Region would like to thank the following community partners for their support of the event: the Ajax Anti-Racism Task Force, Ajax Public Library, Canadian Jamaican Club of Canada, City of Pickering, Conseil des Organismes Francophones de la Region de Durham (COFRD), Durham Community Health Centre, Kenyan Women In Canada Association, Municipality of Clarington, Pickering Anti-Black Racism Taskforce, Town of Ajax, Town of Whitby, and Women's Multicultural Resource and Counselling Centre.

And a special thanks to the City of Oshawa for their exceptional partnership and commitment in hosting and bringing this event to life.