Collingwood, ON [13 June 2025] – Many Canadians are unaware that slavery was common across Canada and believe Canada’s connection to slavery begins and ends with the Underground Railroad, a symbol of hope and freedom for enslaved African Americans fleeing north. But what is far less known is Canada’s own 200-year history of slavery and the significant role it played in the early colonial settlement of Canada, a legacy that continues to be seen and felt today.
The Collingwood Museum is honoured to present A History Exposed: The Enslavement of Black People in Canada, a powerful and thought-provoking travelling exhibition on display from June 17 to August 30. The first of its kind, this national travelling exhibition sheds light on the often-overlooked history of slavery in Canada through individual biographies and archival records. Learn about how slavery started in Canada, those who upheld the system, and examine the enduring legacy it has left behind.
A History Exposed: The Enslavement of Black People in Canada was created by the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in partnership with Dr. Afua Cooper and the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia. The exhibit’s arrival in Collingwood marks the first time the display will be seen outside of Nova Scotia.
Content Warning: This exhibition contains images and text describing violence endured by enslaved peoples and documents with racist and colonialist language. This content may challenge and disturb visitors. Adults with young children may wish to preview the exhibit beforehand.
Two satellite displays from Sheffield Park Black History and Cultural Museum will also be available to view, demonstrating the vibrance and enduring nature of African Culture. Visitors are encouraged to visit Sheffield Park in Clarksburg to learn more about the history and continuing contributions of Black Canadians to our local region and Canada at large.
The Collingwood Museum is located at 45 St. Paul Street and is open to the public Monday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission to the museum is by donation. For group bookings or guided tours, please call 705-445-4811, ext. 7223. For additional information, please visit the Collingwood Museum’s webpage www.collingwood.ca/museum.
