Emancipation Day

Dear colleagues,

On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect, bringing an end to the centuries-old system of colonial slavery of Africans throughout the British Empire, including in the territory now known as Canada. Emancipation Day is an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the lives of countless individuals throughout world history. As an organization committed to social responsibility and inclusion, we believe it is essential to recognize this day as part of our ongoing journey toward a more just and equitable society.

Once again, this year, we highlight the official recognition of Emancipation Day as an event of national historic significance, a designation granted under Parks Canada’s National Program of Historical Commemoration. This important recognition underscores the need to remember and honour the foundational contributions of people of African descent to Canada’s history and development.

The adoption of the Slavery Abolition Act led to celebrations in several provinces, establishing an annual tradition that fosters social connection and solidarity within communities of African descent. It is also important to acknowledge that some Indigenous peoples were also enslaved in New France and British Canada, and that their descendants participated in the early commemorations of this day.

Recognizing these significant contributions is essential. Official designations such as Emancipation Day help Canadians better understand the people, places, and events that have profoundly shaped the country’s history, identity, and society.

As we move forward, we reaffirm our commitment to the values of diversity and inclusion and continue working to improve the experiences of people from all backgrounds. The Parks Canada Values and Ethics Code, along with the Values and Operating Principles, provide a strong foundation for creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels respected, seen and valued.

We invite you to visit the Black Employees Network Page to learn more about its initiatives and how to get involved. Emancipation Day reminds us that progress is possible—and that by working together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate future for generations to come.

Michelle Bowden and Rawan El-Komos
Co-Champions for Black Employees Network

Ron Hallman
President & CEO
#ParksCanadaProud

Reminder to managers: In keeping with Parks Canada's procedures for communications with employees, managers are responsible for ensuring all employees under their responsibility receive the information intended for them. It is important that you find a means to transmit this message and, if any, the attachment(s) to employees without access to Parks Canada e-mail or the intranet, e.g. by posting it, circulating a paper copy or by any other appropriate means.