For the 164th time, the Owen Sound Emancipation Festival returns this weekend at Grey Roots Museum & Archives and Harrison Park.
“I hope people use this opportunity to connect with their community and learn more about Black history right here in Grey Bruce,” says Mayor Ian Boddy.
Starting July 31, Grey Roots Museum & Archives hosts a Speaker’s Corner with Carolynn and Sylvia Wilson, Dorothy Abbott and Lesa Walker from 6 to 9:30 p.m. The event also features live music by Bobby Dean Blackburn, appetizers and refreshments at a cash bar. Admission is $25.
On Aug. 1, the Freedom Walk begins at Grey Roots at 8:30 a.m., with participants walking together to the picnic site. The Emancipation Festival and Picnic follows at Harrison Park from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., featuring live music, vendors and information booths.
On Aug. 2, Inspirational Sunday takes place at the British Methodist Episcopal Church of Owen Sound from noon to 3 p.m. Musical guests include Rev. Cosmos Dzuda, Bobby Dean Blackburn, David Sereda and the Songsters.
“We have an incredible lineup of musicians and speakers for the entire weekend,” says chair Joan John. “We are very lucky to have such a vibrant community here and many people who travel to Owen Sound to participate in our festival.”
Since 1862, descendants of freedom seekers, allies and community members have gathered in Harrison Park, Grey Roots Museum & Archives and the BME Church to reflect, reconnect and celebrate emancipation. The festival commemorates the British Commonwealth Emancipation Act of Aug. 1, 1834.