The Government of New Brunswick passed a unanimous motion Wednesday officially recognizing Aug. 1 as Emancipation Day.
Immigration Minister Arlene Dunn introduced the motion and was seconded by Green Party leader David Coon.
“This is a historic day for New Brunswick and all those of African descent who call our beautiful province home,” said Dunn in a news release.
“I am proud to be part of this non-partisan effort and I’m looking forward to celebrating our province’s first Emancipation Day just weeks from now.”
Emancipation Day marks the abolition of slavery by the British parliament on Aug. 1, 1834, which freed about 800,000 African slaves throughout British colonies, including upper and lower Canada.
New Brunswick joins provinces like Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in recognizing the day.
The federal government has recognized Emancipation Day since March 24, 2021.
