Celebration of New Emancipation Day Memorial Artwork brings City of Brampton and community together

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was an historic day on Thursday, August 1^st,2024, when the City of Brampton unveiled a new cultural monument at Emancipation Park, which is located near Dixie Rd and Highway 427. On hand were Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, Regional Councilor Rowena Santos as well as many community members, residents and supporters.

The press release issued by the City of Brampton states that it has added to its collection of more than 50 public art installations having recently unveiled a new memorial artwork commemorating Emancipation Day. August 1^st has been celebrated across the British Empire which includes Canada, because it was on that day, 1833 that the Slavery Abolition Act was signed. The new cultural monument is titled, ”Fah Who Dis?” and it features two colourful sculptures symbolizing the vibrancy, resilience and cultural heritage of Black-identifying Canadians. It invites residents and visitors to learn, celebrate and reflect on their journey towards freedom and equality.

Details about the unveiling of the new Emancipation Day memorial artwork were released in a press release issued by the City of Brampton on Friday, August 2^nd,, 2024. There were four artists who were commissioned to participate in the multi-artist project. They were:

Kanisha Dabreo A multidisciplinary artist, digital designer, Caribbean-Canadian and the founder of Artist Perception

Komi Olafimihan He is a Toronto-based visual artist who is of Nigerian background and works in diverse fields such as: painting, digital illustration, mural art.

Jamera Dacosta She engages in a wide view of areas such as: acrylic, oil pastel and digital art.

Jason O’Brien His work draws from Black-Afrocentric themes such as: culture, literature, music, fashion, and of culture.

Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton states, “This new monument stands as a powerful symbol of our commitment to learning from the past and building a future rooted in equity and inclusion. It honours the remarkable achievements of Black-identifying Canadians in our country’s history and the importance of staying together in solidarity. We are delighted to recognize Emancipation Day with such a significant and meaningful piece of art, and I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to AstroSankofa and the artists for their incredible work and vision.”

Rowena Santos, Regional Councilor, Wards 1 & 5, Chair of Community Services states, “AstroBlackJoy is not just an art installation; it is a celebration of culture, resilience and the unyielding spirit of Black-identifying Canadians. This memorial invites us all to reflect on our shared history and renew our commitment to combating racism and discrimination. It beautifully highlights the strength and diversity of our city, and I am deeply grateful to the artists for their dedication and creativity in bringing this project to life.”

Kelly Stahl, Director of Cultural Services, City of Brampton states, “We are thrilled to unveil AstroBlackJoy as a part of Brampton’s public art installation. This memorial embodies the collaborative spirit of our community and the incredible talent of our artists. It is a vibrant and thought-provoking piece that will inspire conversations and reflections on Emancipation Day and beyond.”

Kanisa Dabreo, Lead Artist of AstroBlackJoy states, “Creating AstroBlackJoy has been a deeply meaningful journey. This memorial is a tribute to the ancestors who fought for freedom and to the generations who continue to build on that legacy. It is a celebration of our culture, our history and our future. I am honoured to have collaborated with such talented artists and to contribute to Brampton’s public art collection.”