Clarington mayor issues Emancipation Day statement citing Slavery Abolition Act

Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster issued an Emancipation Day statement on Aug. 1, 2026, which the Municipality of Clarington posted on its website the same day.

In the statement, Foster focused on slavery in Canada and what he described as its ongoing impacts, while also pointing to the Slavery Abolition Act and present-day concerns about discrimination.

Foster said Emancipation Day is a time to “reflect on the painful history of slavery in Canada and its intergenerational impact on people of African descent.”

He also referenced the Slavery Abolition Act, saying it “came into effect on August 1, 1834,” and describing it as “paving the way toward freedom for many here and throughout the British colonies.”

Foster said “the struggle for equality did not end with emancipation,” and he described Emancipation Day as “an opportunity to honour the resilience, contributions and leadership of Black communities – both past and present.”

In the same statement, Foster said the municipality “recognize[s] the courage of those who fight for freedom, justice, and equity” and added, “Today, we celebrate those who stand against systemic racism, discrimination, and hate.”

He concluded by calling Clarington “a diverse community, where everyone belongs.”