July 7-9 2026: Freedom Walk and Harriet Tubman Journey to Freedom Sculpture

This July, Chatham-Kent will welcome Tony Cohen and the Freedom Walk 2026 team as they commemorate the 30th anniversary of Tony Cohen's historic 750-kilometre journey retracing one of the routes travelled by freedom seekers along the Underground Railroad.

In 1996, Tony Cohen walked from Maryland to Canada to honour the courage and determination of those who risked everything in search of freedom. Thirty years later, he returns with the Menare Foundation and the Harrier Tubman Journey to Freedom sculpture, a striking 9-foot travelling monument that will journey throughout Southwestern Ontario on a flatbed trailer, inspiring communities to reflect on the enduring legacy of the Underground Railroad.

During their visit to Chatham-Kent, the Freedom Walk 2026 team will make stops at three significant historic sites that preserve and share the stories of Black history, resilience, and freedom:

Tuesday, July 7, 12:30 p.m. Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum

Wednesday, July 8, 1:00 p.m. Buxton National Historic Site & Museum

Thursday, July 9, 1:00 p.m. Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend these special events, view the Harriet Tubman sculpture, meet Tony Cohen and the Freedom Walk 2026 team, and celebrate Chatham-Kent's internationally recognized role in the history of the Underground Railroad and Black settlement in Canada. And, to join in recognizing the people whose determination helped share our history.

The Freedom Walk 2026 tour celebrates the legacy of freedom seekers while strengthening connections between communities dedicated to preserving Black history and heritage. The visit also highlights the ongoing importance of education, remembrance, and reconciliation through shared historical experiences.