Majid Jowhari, Member of Parliament for Richmond Hill, will participate in a Parks Canada and Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque unveiling ceremony to commemorate the national historic significance of Celebrations of Emancipation Day.

On  August 1,1834, the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect, marking the immediate abolition and emancipation of enslaved people of African descent across British North America. This sparked what became a longstanding tradition of celebrations of African ancestry, community socials and fundraising, as well as education and reflection on the legacy of slavery. Celebrations of Emancipation Day represent the strength and perseverance of African Canadians in the fight for racial equality throughout history which continue into the present day.

Majid Jowhari will make the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

Please note that this advisory is subject to change without notice.

The details are as follows:

Date:                Sunday, July 28, 2024

Time:               Ceremony starts at 11:30 a.m. (EDT)    

Location:         Snell Hall, Cathedral Church of St. James
                          65 Church St, Toronto, ON, M5C 2E9

                                                                                                                      -30-