​BRAMPTON, ON (July 15, 2022) – The City of Brampton invites residents to celebrate Emancipation Day, recognized globally as the day to commemorate the abolition of slavery of people of African descent, on Monday, August 1.

This year, to commemorate the anniversary of Emancipation Park and to recognize Emancipation Day, the City is hosting a Caribbean Festival in Emancipation Park from noon to 8 pm.  Eventgoers will enjoy food vendors, a Caribbean Crafters Market, live entertainment and more.

The City first recognized Emancipation Day in 2020 with the renaming of Dixie 407 Sports Park to Emancipation Park, which features minor and major soccer pitches, and cricket grounds. This year, the City invites everyone to recognize Caribbean heritage and independence and the contributions of the Black community in Brampton, and celebrate the city’s diverse Mosaic with a day of arts, culture, food and community.

Learn more about the event at Brampton.ca.

Quotes
“Brampton’s Mosaic is what makes our city so unique and is something for all of us to celebrate. We invite residents to join us on Emancipation Day on August 1 for a day of arts, culture, food and community, and to recognize Caribbean heritage and independence and the contributions of the Black community in Brampton. Together, we will commemorate the past as we continue to work towards a fair and equitable future for all.”
- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“The City of Brampton is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, both in the workplace and our community. We invite residents to join us at our Emancipation Day event to engage in conversation and celebrate Black culture and the Black community in Brampton.”
- Paul Morrison, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton

“Emancipation Day is recognized as the day to commemorate the abolition of slavery of people of African descent from the British Empire. Since the law came into effect on August 1, 1834, it has been a day of reflection on the African and black diaspora, and a celebration of heritage and culture. It also provides the opportunity to continue important conversations on diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism. It’s important to note that Upper Canada (Ontario) in 1793 passed an Act to gradually end the practice of slavery, and most Canadian provinces had passed their own legislations prohibiting slavery prior to 1834. Join us at our Emancipation Day event to celebrate African and Caribbean heritage and independence, celebrate Brampton’s diversity and recognize the many sacrifices made to eradicate slavery in Canada and around the world.”
- Michele Byrne, Manager, Equity Office, City of Brampton

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As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to 700,000 people and 75,000 businesses. People are at the heart of everything we do. We are energized by our diverse communities, we attract investment, and we are embarking on a journey to lead technological and environmental innovation. We partner for progress to build a healthy city that is safe, sustainable, and successful. Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Learn more at www.brampton.ca


MEDIA CONTACT
City of Brampton Media Relations
Mediarelations@brampton.ca