The annual Emancipation Day will be celebrated on Saturday in Chatham-Kent to mark the end of slavery in the British Empire.
Several events and activities can be enjoyed at the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History in Dresden on August 1 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Emancipation Day commemorates the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire on Aug. 1, 1834, while recognizing the ongoing legacy, resilience and achievements of Black communities in Canada.
According to the museum, an estimated 30,000 Black refugees from slavery in the United States fled to Canada along the Underground Railroad, including Josiah Henson.
Museum Interpreter Erika Galbraith told The Big Breakfast on Big Country 91.3 that the public can enjoy vocal performances and a Pan-African cooking demonstration by popular 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 said the entire museum will be open for people who want to browse.
"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 noted a free day of live entertainment, inspiring speakers, cultural experiences, and family-friendly activities, including:
Live music by Josh Johnson
Vocalist Vanina Valora
Craft beer available to buy from Sons of Kent
Book signing with Dr. Nikki Clarke, author of Black Canadian History Coloring Book
Dresden's Black Military Legacy exhibit
Swanky Dawg and Truckin' Mama's food trucks
Lunch will be available to buy.
Galbraith said people can sit under a large tent or bring their own lawn chairs.
