The Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History, Dresden, Ontario, hosts an annual Emancipation Day celebration that highlights hope and freedom, marking the end of slavery in Canada and underscoring the ongoing quest for inclusivity and equity.

Henson, a Methodist preacher, escaped slavery in the United States and arrived in Canada on October 28, 1830. Although he settled in Canada, Henson made several trips back to the U.S. to assist and encourage other enslaved individuals in their escape to Canada, serving as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. It is believed that he personally guided 118 people to freedom in Canada. Additionally, during the Rebellions of 1837–1838, Henson served as captain of a Black Canadian Militia unit, providing support to the government.

The annual Emancipation Day celebration gathers historians, chefs, storytellers, poets, and musicians for a day of activities that delve into Ontario’s Black history, emphasizing the values of freedom, justice, and the persistent struggle against racial inequality. The celebration is free to attend and offers a range of activities including music, presentations, crafts, and food. While lunch is available for purchase, attendees can also bring their own lawn chairs for seating.

Emancipation Day holds significant meaning in Ontario, and the annual celebration at the Josiah Henson Museum helps honor the history of Black Ontarians who sought refuge in Canada from slavery and those who have since enriched the province with their contributions.

The museum consistently provides engaging programs to educate the public about Black history, inviting everyone to learn about the significance of Emancipation Day and to recognize the enduring impact of Black Ontarians on the province’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. By acknowledging and understanding this shared heritage, the goal is to foster a more inclusive and cohesive Ontario.

  Dresden-Ontario