Toronto Raises Emancipation Flag at City Hall
Toronto marked a historic occasion with the raising of the Emancipation Flag at City Hall, celebrating August as Emancipation Month in Canada. This commemoration aligns with the United Nations’ declaration of the International Decade for People of African Descent.
Mayor Olivia Chow highlighted the city’s commitment to addressing anti-Black racism, announcing allocation of more funds for related initiatives. “This investment reflects our dedication to building a more inclusive and equitable city,” Chow stated.
The ceremony featured a series of speeches emphasizing the strength and resilience of Black communities. Ginelle Skereitt, CEO of the Children’s Aid Society in York Region, underscored the flag’s symbolism: “Black is a unifying color and our freedom is our birth right .”
Toronto, with its substantial Black population, now has four Black-identified councillors, the highest number in its history. The city also introduced a 10-year anti-Black racism action plan “This plan is the longest mandate and anti black racisim strategy in Canada” says Chris Mois, councilor of Toronto center.
Councilors and speakers used the event to reinforce the importance of unity and collective action against injustices. Originally created by Marcus Garvey in 1920 to serve as a symbol of liberation struggle for people of African descent ,the Emancipation Flag now proudly flies, representing a commitment to justice and the celebration of Black heritage in Toronto.
