Emancipation Day, recognized on August 1, commemorates the anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery Act of 1834, which officially ended slavery within the British colonies, including Canada. Emancipation Day is an important opportunity to reflect on Canada’s colonial legacy and to challenge our understanding of history, which has often excluded the voices and experiences of many who shaped this nation. 

While colonization is part of Canadian history, it is not the history of the marginalized groups it oppressed, but rather the history of unjust practices in Canada. These unjust practices continue within institutions like public education which perpetuate anti-Black racism. All educational stakeholders, including school boards and unions, must do the essential work to address anti-Black racism within education.       

Emancipation Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the historical and current contributions made by Black communities to Canadian society. For many, it serves a reminder of our own “Juneteenth,” a celebration widely recognized in the United States.  

As a union committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of all, ETFO encourages its members to reflect on the historical and current realities of Black communities while celebrating the contributions of Black Canadians. Together and united, ETFO can challenge anti-Black racism in all its forms, and actively support initiatives that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion within our schools, workplaces, and communities.