- Emancipation Day Booklist
- Emancipation Day: Celebrating Freedom in Canada by Natasha Henry-Dixon
- Talking About Freedom: Celebrating Emancipation Day in Canada by Natasha Henry-Dixon
- Kids Book of Black History in Canada by Rosemary Sadlier
Emancipation Day Celebrations
Emancipation Day, celebrated on August 1, commemorates the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 across the British Empire. In alignment with Kingston’s ongoing commitment in acknowledging Canada’s history of enslaving African and Indigenous peoples, a flag-raising ceremony and community services fair will take place on August 1, to raise awareness and educate the community on the historical significance of Emancipation Day.
When and where?
Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at Confederation Park.
Activities
- Flag-Raising Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. at Confederation Park (rainy-day location at Memorial Hall, City Hall, 216 Ontario St.)
The flag-raising ceremony will include reflections in both French and English acknowledging the enduring impact of enslavement and its connections to anti-Black racism while highlighting the government’s commitment to eradicating anti-Black racism and supporting Black-focused initiatives. We have invited numerous community members to join us on this day including elected officials and community partners.
- Community Services Fair: 12:30 p.m. at Confederation Park
The Community Services Fair will include local community organizations and service providers who primarily serve Black community members at no cost.
- City Hall Illumination In recognition of Emancipation Day: City Hall will be illuminated in the evening with red, gold and green – the colours of the Pan African Flag.
Accessibility Information
- Flag-raising ceremony will be held in English and French.
- Confederation Park and Memorial Hall are both fully accessible spaces.
- Accessible restrooms are available in City Hall and at the Visitors Information Centre.
Online educational resources
- Get Off the Track – Written by Jesse Hutchison in 1844, the song depicts the coming of freedom and encourages others to support what cannot be stopped: freedom.
- Hymn to Freedom – Oscar Peterson
- Redemption Song – Performed by Alexandra Kane
Contact Us
City of Kingston
City Hall
216 Ontario Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3
Canada
contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Phone: 613-546-0000
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
