February is Black History Month in Canada, African Heritage Month in Nova Scotia.  Staff at Town Hall want to share resources and information about Black Nova Scotian history in our own region and beyond.  We have curated some articles, websites and videos to share with our residents this month.

1. Have you seen any of the Mathieu Da Costa information panels in the valley? The Mathieu Da Costa African Heritage Trail invites visitors to explore our rich African heritage through a series of bilingual interpretive panels. Each stop on the trail is a celebration of Nova Scotian African culture and history that has been cultivated by unique individuals and strong communities that are too often forgotten. Follow this link to learn more!  

2. Can't get to a museum in person? No problem!! Take a virtual tour of THREE of Nova Scotia's African Nova Scotian Culture and History Centres! the Black Cultural Centre, the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre and the Africville Museum! It's the next best thing to going in person!  

3. Members of the African Diaspora such as Portia White have been trailblazers throughout history. By recognizing the efforts of some we can educate and instill not only their story but pride in what was achieved and how it influences community moving forward. The four trailblazers featured by the Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association were selected as the first 4 Persons of African Descent feature on the ‘Legacy Coffee Series’.  Follow this link to learn more!  

4. "I believe the defining test of systemic racism in Canada is when I no longer have to somehow prove that I, as a Black Canadian, am worthy to participate in and enjoy all the fruits, benefits and perks of daily living that have been bestowed on the white majority by virtue of their privilege."  https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-lets-make-2022-black-history-year/

5. "Now more than ever is the time to consider the realities of Canadian-Black communities. Explore our collection of films by distinguished Black filmmakers, creators, and allies." The films in this playlist are some of the most important NFB portrayals of Black communities in Canada and paints a picture of a thriving part of our society in constant evolution. Follow this link for a long list of award winning Canadian films!  

6. "If you’ve never heard of Africville, you’re not alone; the tragic story of this small Black community in Nova Scotia is not as well known as it should be. It is part of a much larger story of Black settlers in Nova Scotia, which goes back hundreds of years." Follow this link to learn about the history of Africville.