Hello everyone.

190 years ago today, the Slavery Abolition Act took effect.

It liberated enslaved people of African descent across the British Empire in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, and South Africa.

On Emancipation Day, we remember the horrific history of slavery in this country, and the lasting impacts it had on Black communities, from intergenerational trauma to economic hardship.

And we recognize the remarkable courage, the determination, and resilience of those who fought for freedom and for justice.

They paved the way for a country where everyone – no matter the colour of their skin, their religion, or their ethnicity – can live free.

Canada has come such a long way since 1834, but we still have work to do to keep building a country where everyone has a fair shot.

Inspired by the advocacy of Black Canadians, we’ve made transformative investments to support Black communities, Black entrepreneurs, and Black-led organizations across Canada.

We’ve extended the International Decade for People of African Descent to promote equality, build up Black communities, and empower Black leaders.

On this Emancipation Day, I hope all Canadians reflect on the impact that slavery had on our country, and I hope that each of us recommit to building a more just society for everyone – not just today, but every day.

Thank you all so much. Thank you, my friends.