One of the great advantages of living in a multicultural city is that we have the opportunity to learn about and to explore other cultures. Remembering, educating, and commemorating important historical and cultural events are the ways that we are able to reach out to all of the citizens of Toronto.

From November 1st to December 31st we celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in Ontario. It’s hard to believe that we ever had slaves in Ontario. In fact I’m sure that there are many among us who didn’t know that slavery even existed here. Well, unfortunately it did. Slavery is a shameful part of history and just one historical example of man’s inhumanity to man. British Loyalists who came to settle Canada brought African slaves to Upper Canada (now Southern Ontario) with them. In 1793, Upper Canada, under Lieutenant Governor John Graves Simcoe, became the first jurisdiction in the British Empire to limit slavery. The British Parliament passed The Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807 which outlawed the slave trade throughout the British Empire and made it illegal for British ships to be involved in the trade and transportation of slaves.

The Ontario Bicentenary Exhibit is designed to educate all Ontarians on the history of slavery in our province. It also highlights the brave and forward thinking individuals who fought for the abolition of slavery from our society. This very important exhibit and educational tool is entirely FREE of charge. In addition to the exhibit there are accompanying lectures, readings, and film.

The exhibit is located on the ground level of 880 Bay Street which is at Bay Street and Grosvenor Street and is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and on Saturday from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Sunday and Monday the Ontario Bicentenary Exhibit is closed. The exhibit is easily accessible by TTC. Exit at the Wellesley Subway Station. For more information call 416-314-7304 follow the link below.
http://www.citizenship.gov.on.ca/english/about/bicentenary/