In 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act officially came into effect, ending slavery across the British Empire. As Nova Scotia prepares to mark this historic event this weekend, Russell Grosse, executive director of the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, believes it’s a chance to share history. “It’s a great opportunity to create a greater understanding,” he told CTV News Atlantic’s Maria Panopalis. Nova Scotia designated Aug. 1 as Emancipation Day in 2021. “Emancipation Day is a day of solemn reflection but also a celebration,” Grosse said. “The story of resilience, of overcoming that major adversity of being an enslaved group of people to make vibrant communities. “They left an indelible mark on the country.” Grosse said the discussion around Black history has changed since he went to school. “There’s been a big shift,” he said. “Many years ago when I was in grade schools, I didn’t learn much about my own history. For the most part, Black history was a footnote when it came to the education system. “Emancipation Day is a great opportunity to share that story and the resilience that comes from Black Canadians.” A flag raising for Emancipation Day will be held at Province House in Halifax at 10 a.m. on Friday. A full celebration will be held at 1521 Lower Water St. at 11 a.m. on Saturday. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
