As communities across Canada prepare to mark Emancipation Day on August 1, the Cumberland African Nova Scotian Association (CANSA) is inviting residents of all ages and backgrounds to gather in Dickey Park for a day of learning, celebration and community.
Emancipation Day commemorates August 1, 1834, when the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect across the British Empire, legally ending slavery for approximately 800,000 enslaved people, including those in what is now Canada. While Canada officially recognized Emancipation Day in 2021, the day has long been observed by African Nova Scotian and Black communities as an opportunity to remember history, honour resilience and continue building a more inclusive future.
Victoria Vance, Executive Director of CANSA, says recognizing Emancipation Day helps ensure this important chapter of history is never forgotten.
"We have to remember our past if we want to build a better future," said Vance. "Education is how we move forward together."
Community members gathered to raise the Pan-African flag in recocnition of Emancipation Day in 2025.
Nova Scotia is home to one of Canada's oldest and largest historic Black communities, with African Nova Scotians contributing to the province's growth and identity for more than 400 years. Vance says Emancipation Day is for everyone.
"It's an opportunity for everyone to learn, ask questions, have meaningful conversations and celebrate the progress we've made while recognizing there's still work to do."
Choosing Dickey Park for the annual celebration is about more than convenience – it's about honouring local history. Long before Emancipation Day received official recognition in Canada, the Highlands neighbourhood was a gathering place for many African Nova Scotian families. It was also where local men were recruited into the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada's first and only Black military battalion, which served during the First World War. Gathering in Dickey Park connects today's celebration with generations of local history, resilience, and service.
CANSA's free Emancipation Day celebration takes place Saturday, August 1, at Dickey Park. The day begins with a community Black Lives Matter Run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by additional family-friendly activities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., including a barbecue, games, face painting, educational trivia, a community mural, music, prizes and a foam party. The event is free, open to everyone, and will proceed rain or shine.
Vance hopes the day encourages people of all backgrounds to come together, learn from one another and celebrate the rich history and contributions of African Nova Scotian and Black communities.
"We need to keep educating current and future generations. That's how we build stronger communities where everyone belongs."
