Abolition Movement in British North America National Historic Event
© Parks Canada
The Abolition Movement in British North America was designated as a national historic event in 2004.
Historical importance: Struggle to abolish slavery in British North America between 1783 and 1860.
Commemorative plaque: 135 King Street East, Chatham, OntarioFootnote 1
The Abolition Movement in British North America
From 1783 until the 1860s, abolitionists in British North America took part in the fight to end slavery both at home and in the United States. Thanks to the determination of colonial officials, anti-slavery organizations, and the thousands of African Americans who took refuge in Upper and Lower Canada and the Maritimes during this period, the colonies became a centre of abolitionist activity, as evidenced by the convention held here at this church by John Brown in 1858. This struggle for human rights had a defining influence on African Canadian culture and helped shape Canada’s values and institutions.
The National Program of Historical Commemoration relies on the participation of Canadians in the identification of places, events and persons of national historic significance. Any member of the public can nominate a topic for consideration by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
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