Chender: Emancipation Day a time to reflect, work toward a better future

HALIFAX –Today marks Emancipation Day in Nova Scotia, which recognizes the day the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 became law across the British Empire, including Canada, on August 1, 1834.

NSNDP leader Claudia Chender made the following statement:

“In the 190 years since the Slavery Abolition Act became law, we’ve made so much progress, but we still have a long way to go. While advancements have been made in the area of anti-racism in Nova Scotia, many barriers still remain for African Nova Scotians trying to access housing, education, health care, employment and justice.

We, as a province, must continue to support efforts to address anti-Black racism in Nova Scotia and ensure African Nova Scotians have equal access to opportunities, prosperity and well-being.

Emancipation Day is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate and reflect on the work that's been done, while paving the way for all the work we have left to do to tackle racism and hate.”

This is the fourth year Emancipation Day will be recognized in Nova Scotia. Legislation was passed in 2021 to recognize Emancipation Day on August 1 each year.

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