This Saturday, Chatham-Kent will host its annual Emancipation Day to celebrate the end of slavery in the British Empire.
From 11 a. m. to 2 p. m., visitors can enjoy various events and activities at the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History in Dresden on August 1.
Emancipation Day honors the abolition of slavery across the British Empire on Aug. 1, 1834, while also acknowledging the enduring impact, strength, and accomplishments of Black communities in Canada.
The museum states that around 30,000 Black individuals escaped from slavery in the United States to Canada via the Underground Railroad, including Josiah Henson.
Museum Interpreter Erika Galbraith shared with The Big Breakfast on Big Country 91.3 that attendees can look forward to vocal performances as well as a Pan-African cooking demo by Chef Patience Chirisa.
“We actually had her a couple of years prior at the museum. She was a fan favourite. She was born in Zimbabwe, so she makes foods specific to her culture there. Every year she switches it up, so we don’t know what she has in store for us, but she might have some samples with her,” she added.
Galbraith mentioned that all parts of the museum will be open for those interested in exploring.
“We have a brand new exhibit. It’s the most recent addition to the museum. It highlights Black veterans who grew up in Dresden,” Galbraith added.
The program features a free day filled with live entertainment, motivational speakers, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities such as:
Live music by Josh Johnson
Vocalist Vanina Valora
Craft beer available for purchase from Sons of Kent
A book signing with Dr. Nikki Clarke, author of Black Canadian History Coloring Book
Dresden’s Black Military Legacy exhibit
Food trucks like Swanky Dawg and Truckin’ Mama’s
Lunch will be available for purchase.
Galbraith noted that people can either sit under a large tent or bring their own lawn chairs.
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