Education and Celebrating Community Highlights African Heritage Month

Nova Scotians are invited to celebrate, experience and learn about the rich culture, history, achievements and contributions of people of African descent during African Heritage Month 2018.

Government recognized and celebrated February as African Heritage Month with a launch at Province House in Halifax today, Jan. 23, by Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc and African Nova Scotian Affairs Minister Tony Ince.

This year’s theme, Educate, Unite, Celebrate Community, recognizes African Nova Scotians and their long-lasting legacy of uniting a passion to educate all Nova Scotians about an integral part of our culture and heritage.

“The theme encourages all Nova Scotians to learn about a significant aspect of our history,” said Lt.-Gov. Arthur J. LeBlanc. “The history of African Nova Scotians and their journey is long, deep and rich and it is one that we all must come to understand and appreciate.”

More than 100 events are planned to acknowledge and celebrate the progress, longevity and perseverance of African Nova Scotians.

“People of African descent have been part of Nova Scotia’s history for 400 years and I encourage everyone to celebrate our historic black communities and the people and events that helped shape the province,” said Mr. Ince. “African Nova Scotian heritage and culture has something for everyone.”

The province has more than 50 historic black communities and each year Nova Scotians celebrate and invite others to join in and learn more about African Nova Scotians.

“African Heritage Month 2018 will give people the opportunity to learn about and participate in various cultural events,” said Elizabeth Cooke Sumbu, executive director of Cumberland African Nova Scotia Association.

To learn more visit ansa.novascotia.ca.

People can also keep up to date on events through Facebook, @AfricanNSAffairs and on Twitter, @OfficeofANSA.