Elise Harding Davis, a local author and historian approached Essex Council to ensure that the Town of Essex acknowledges Emancipation Day. After discussions with her, a Notice of Motion was raised at council, later followed by the adoption of a proclamation. We can thank Elise Harding Davis for making this happen in Essex!
Notice of Motion:
At its September 21, 2020 Regular Council Meeting the Town of Essex approved the
following proclamation:
Proclamation:
THAT, the Town of Essex wishes to demonstrate our respect for human rights and freedoms
by commemorating the Abolition of Slavery that took place in Upper and Lower Canada and
the British Empire on August 1, 1834;
WHEREAS, Emancipation Day recognizes those who have struggled and continue to struggle
against slavery. This includes recognizing the abundant cultural history of those individuals
that pursued freedom in Canada via the Underground Railroad;
THEREFORE, the Council of the Town of Essex does hereby proclaim August 1 as Emancipation Day in the Town of Essex
Larry Snively
Mayor of the Town of Essex
Elise Harding Davis
“Elise is an African-Canadian Heritage Consultant and is a descendant of escaped slaves. Elise worked at the North American Black Historical Museum for 32 years. To date, she has been instrumental in the heritage designation of four African Canadian Cemeteries. Elise has spent her entire life in quest of the true history of People of African descent. Throughout her career Ms. Harding-Davis has received numerous awards for her determination to preserve the historic and cultural identities, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and the Diamond Jubilee Medals.
Elise truly believes “Without Positive Black History- All History is Incomplete”
