Emancipation Day is observed annually on August 1, to mark the day in 1834 when the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect—however, full emancipation for enslaved peoples in Canada would not be realized until several years later, on July 31, 1838.
Although slavery was abolished in Canada, Black and Indigenous communities—including the descendants of those who were enslaved—continue to experience systemic racism and discrimination, and social and health inequities that contribute to disparities in health outcomes, and negative impacts to physical and mental health.
Many Canadians remain unaware of Canada’s participation in the transatlantic slave trade, and the enslavement of Indigenous Peoples. This day is therefore an important opportunity to acknowledge Canada’s history, and to commit to addressing anti-Black and anti-Indigenous racism.
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) recognizes the importance of providing culturally-safe and responsive care, and fostering an inclusive environment for our patients, their families, and our staff. In order to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion in all that we do, TBRHSC will:
- Develop a Black Health Plan. The Black Health Plan will be a roadmap to creating equitable health conditions for Black populations
- Continue to advance culturally-safe care through staff education and training, and cultural activities and initiatives at TBRHSC
- Provide culturally safe services. Indigenous Care Coordinators, the Traditional Wellness Coordinator, Spiritual Care Associates, and Patient Advocates support patients’ unique preferences, needs, values, and culture throughout their care journey
To learn more about Emancipation Day, please go to: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/emancipation-day.html
To learn more about the social determinants and inequities for Black populations, please go to: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/population-health/what-determines-health/social-determinants-inequities-black-canadians-snapshot.html