FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BRAMPTON, ON (July 23, 2021) – On August 1, the City of Brampton invites you to celebrate Emancipation Day, recognized globally as the day to commemorate the abolition of slavery of people of African descent. The event will begin with an in-person flag raising at Ken Whillans Square at 10 am, followed by a food truck festival, including music and entertainment, from noon to 8 pm in Emancipation Park, 7599 Dixie Road. Advanced registration is required to participate.
The City of Brampton’s Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit will introduce the Passing the Torch Awards, a new recognition program that brings together Black youth and trailblazers, symbolizing the passing of knowledge and path to success. Keynote speaker Zanana Akande, the first Black woman elected to Ontario’s Legislative Assembly, will introduce the awards program at Emancipation Park during the opening ceremony beginning at 12 pm.
To register to attend the flag raising or book your table for the food truck festival, visit brampton.ca/events
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 we invite everyone to recognize Caribbean heritage and independence, the contribution of Brampton’s Black community, and celebrate our diverse mosaic with a day of arts, culture, food and community.
Quotes
“Brampton’s diverse background is what makes this city a unique and beautiful mosaic, one that we celebrate and cherish. Last year City Council proclaimed August 1 as Emancipation Day in Brampton and renamed the City’s Dixie 407 Sports Park to Emancipation Park to join the global recognition and commemorate the past as we all work towards a fair and equitable future for all Bramptonians.”
- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton
“In the past year the City’s Anti-Black Racism Unit has worked tirelessly to connect with Brampton’s Black community to have meaningful discussions about our current environment and opportunities for growth and support. Emancipation Day is a way for us to connect with the entire community to celebrate Brampton’s Black heritage and culture, and continue those conversations.”
- Charmaine Williams, City Councillor, Wards 7 & 8, City of Brampton
“The City of Brampton is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion both in the workplace and our community. Our Anti-Black Racism Unit has established itself in the community and become an active partner in working towards change in Brampton. Events like this allows us to start conversations and celebrate Brampton’s Black culture and community.”
- David Barrick, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton
“It is so important that younger generations are engaged with and encouraged to continue the work of emancipation throughout the world. On August 1, we are making it a priority to honour those who have made a way for us and use their legacy to inspire future leaders. To bridge the gap between the generations, the Unit is introducing the Passing the Torch Awards, which will acknowledge Black young achievers who are making a positive change in the community.”
- Gwyneth Chapman, Senior Advisor, Economic Empowerment and Anti-Black Racism Unit, City of Brampton
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As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is home to more than 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
Jacqueline Fulton
Senior Advisor, Media Relations, City of Brampton
jacqueline.fulton@brampton.ca
