Yellowknife’s Somba K’e Civic Plaza was filled with over a hundred people on Saturday for the city’s third annual Emancipation Day celebration. The event, organized by the Black Advocacy Coalition up North (BACupNorth), provided an opportunity for reflection on Canada’s history of slavery and a celebration of the local Black community.

Since 2021, August 1 has been officially recognized as Emancipation Day in Canada, commemorating the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which abolished slavery across the British Empire, including Canada.

The festivities featured a variety of activities, including free food, cultural presentations, an art display, and live music. Performances by the Yellowknives Dene Drummers and Munya Mataruse and friends added to the event’s vibrant atmosphere.

Grace Nchangnwi, who attended with her family, described Emancipation Day as a significant occasion. “Emancipation Day to us means freedom,” she said. “It’s a special day.”

Gilbert Langsi, one of the event organizers, emphasized the importance of understanding this historical context. “There’s an old saying in my Native language: ‘If you don’t know where you’re coming from, you can’t definitely know where you’re going to,'” he said. “This day helps us know our history as Black people and educates others so we can work together to advance our collective struggles.”

The event not only highlighted historical reflection but also embraced joy and community spirit. Attendees of all ages danced and enjoyed the sunny weather, with BACupNorth founder Ambe Chenemu noting that the celebration was meant to reflect the community’s achievements. “What we’re portraying here is that we’re winning,” Chenemu said. “We have a community that supports one another to create better memories and a better journey for future generations.”

The celebration offered a space for both learning and enjoyment, reinforcing the community’s resilience and unity in the face of historical and ongoing challenges.

  yellowknife