Canada existed before it was an independent country, retard.
In fact if you look at his complete statement:
From:
https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/statements/2022/08/01/statement-prime-minister-emancipation-day“Today, on Emancipation Day, we acknowledge the painful history of slavery here in Canada and celebrate the strength and determination of Black communities, who fought – and continue to fight – for freedom, justice, and equality. Officially designated last year by a unanimous vote in the House of Commons, Emancipation Day falls on the day in 1834 that slavery was abolished in the British Empire. This historic day paved the way to freeing over 800,000 enslaved Africans and their descendants in Canada, parts of the Caribbean, Africa, and South America. Since then, August 1 has been commemorated in many parts of the world, including through celebrations of freedom across Canada. Although slavery was abolished nearly 200 years ago, its effects continue to live on today. The legacy of systemic anti-Black racism is still embedded throughout our society, including in our institutions."
So he
1) recognizes that slavery was abolished on a date that preceded Canada's independence
2) points out that despite slavery ending, there are still issues that are the byproduct of slavery and racism in Canada