Black History Month stamp honours slave accused of Montréal fire

Canada Post has unveiled its 2025 Black History Month stamp, commemorating Marie Joseph Angélique, a Black woman enslaved in 18th-century Montréal whose story continues to spark discussions on racial justice and resistance to oppression.

Angélique was accused of setting a fire on April 10, 1734, that destroyed a large portion of Montréal’s merchant quarter. Arrested and put on trial, she denied the charges but was convicted based largely on circumstantial evidence and previous attempts to escape bondage. Despite no witnesses testifying to seeing her commit the act, she was sentenced to death. After enduring torture intended to force a confession, she was publicly hanged on June 21, 1734.

Historians remain divided on whether Angélique was responsible for the fire. Regardless, her story has become emblematic of the struggles faced by enslaved individuals in what is now Canada, highlighting both the existence of slavery and acts of resistance against it. Canada Post noted that her legacy continues to fuel conversations about justice, equality, and the need to recognize the complexities of Canada’s past.

The newly released stamp features an illustration of Angélique, depicted with strength and determination as she faces the viewer. Since no known portraits of her exist, the image was created based on a photograph by Jorge Camarotti of actor and model Penande Estime. The design was led by Nathalie Cusson of Scooter Design, with illustration by Alexis Eke and printing by Colour Innovations.

The stamp issue includes a booklet of six Permanent stamps and an Official First-Day Cover, with the cancel site in Montréal. Stamps and related collectibles are available through Canada Post’s website and select postal outlets across the country.

See below of the images of the booklet and the Official First-Day Cover:

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