|
Date |
Details |
|---|---|
| August 1 |
Emancipation Day On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act took effect aiding in the liberation of over 800,000 enslaved African people in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, and South Africa. On March 24, 2021, the House of Commons voted unanimously to officially designate August 1st Emancipation Day. Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada. On this day and every day, Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against both anti-Black racism and discrimination. To learn more visit: |
| August 9 |
International Day of the World's Indigenous People The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is an occasion to celebrate the distinct cultures and contributions of the estimated 476 million Indigenous Peoples living across 90 countries, including Canada. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm Indigenous Peoples right to self-determination. Today, we reaffirm our commitments to continue listening to, learning from and working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities on Turtle Island and beyond. To learn more visit: |
| August 22 |
International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief This day honours individuals and communities who have experienced violence, persecution, discrimination, or other human rights violations because of their religion or beliefs. It reinforces the importance of freedom of religion, conscience, and belief, while encouraging respect, understanding and inclusion across faiths, spiritual traditions, and non-religious beliefs. |
| August 23 |
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition This day remembers the millions of African people who were forcibly displaced and enslaved through the transatlantic slave trade, while honouring the resistance and courage of those who fought for freedom. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the continuing impacts of slavery, colonialism, anti-Black racism and racial inequality, and to reaffirm the importance of education, remembrance and collective action. To learn more visit: |
| August 31 |
International Day for the People of African Descent On August 31st we commemorate the International Day for People of African Descent (IDPAD), a time to celebrate the achievements and the cultural, economic, political and scientific contributions of people of the African diaspora throughout history, in Canada and around the world. It is also a day to remember the enslavement and trade of millions of African people and to recognize that the legacies of enslavement and colonialism have led to the contemporary forms of racism, inequities, and exclusion that continue to affect Black communities today. To learn more visit: |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the City of Pickering resides on land within the Treaty and traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Williams Treaties signatories of the Mississauga and Chippewa Nations. Pickering is also home to many Indigenous persons and communities who represent other diverse, distinct, and autonomous Indigenous nations. This acknowledgement reminds us of our responsibilities to our relationships with the First Peoples of Canada, and to the ancestral lands on which we learn, share, work, and live.
Recognition of cultural, historical, and equity-related observances
The City of Pickering is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is recognized and celebrated.
Each month, we highlight significant cultural, historical, and equity-related observances that encourage reflection, learning, and mutual respect among all Pickering residents.
Note: The following list highlights key equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) observances. It is not an exhaustive list of all significant cultural, religious, and commemorative dates. For a more comprehensive overview of observances recognized across the Region, please visit the Region of Durham Multicultural Calendar.
Inclusive Observances - August Dates
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
The City of Pickering is committed to embedding equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) into the fabric of its organization and community to foster a sense of belonging, empowerment and respect for all. We strive to develop policies, practices and programs that advance EDI as a standard of public service by engaging diverse perspectives and experiences, eliminating systemic barriers, and promoting community cohesion.
The City approved its first EDI Strategy in May 2024. This foundational document is essential to ensuring that our organization prioritizes equity, diversity and inclusion at every level of decision making and operations so that our policies, programs, services and facilities reflect and serve the diverse needs of the community.
The Strategy identifies five priority areas of focus and recommendations for action related to:
- Education and Awareness
- Structure and Resources
- Community Consultation and Engagement
- Policies, Practices and Programs
- Measurement and Accountability
By implementing an EDI Strategy, the City will have the framework to enhance existing government policies and practices for staff, residents, and the broader community.
Additional Resources
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