African Heritage Month officially began on January 23 with the display of a poster and a provincial proclamation. This month honors and promotes the historical achievements made by African Nova Scotians.
Seas of Struggle: African Peoples from Shore to Shore, the 2023 African Heritage Month theme, honors the resilience, fortitude, and resolve of people of African origin from the beaches of Africa to the shores of Nova Scotia, with the Atlantic Ocean serving as the enduring link.
The subject emphasizes the significant historical contribution that individuals of African heritage have made to the development of Canada and Nova Scotia through the sea. The International Decade for People of African Descent (DPAD) 2015–2024 and this year’s subject are complementary. The objective is to enhance awareness, strengthen international cooperation, and acknowledge the full and equal involvement of persons of African origin in society.
With a rich, lengthy, and complicated history spanning more than 400 years, Nova Scotia is home to more than 50 historically significant African Nova Scotian communities. The celebration and promotion of the culture, history, accomplishments, and contributions of persons of African heritage in Nova Scotia, both past and present, are opportunities provided by African Heritage Month.
In line with this event, we are all invited to celebrate the rich culture of people of African descent by participating in this year’s events and activities:
Municipal Opening Night (January 26, 2023 | 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
The Office of Diversity & Inclusion/ANSAIO invites citizens to celebrate the beginning of African Heritage Month at the North Branch Library as Opening Night returns to an in-person format this year in collaboration with the Halifax Public Libraries and the African History Month Association. Enjoy musical performances by Jah’Mila and Marko Simmonds, remarks on the 40th anniversary of the Africville Genealogy Society, and Mayor Savage reading a proclamation.
Flag Raising (January 30, 2023 | 9:30 a.m.)
Attend the flag raising for African Heritage Month at Grande Parade and a special performance by Owen Lee, then proceed indoors to Halifax Hall for Deputy Mayor Austin’s reading of the proclamation and light refreshments.
City Hall Lit in Pan-African Colours
(January 23 – 27, 2023 | February 18 – 21, 2023 | February 23 – 28, 2023 )
In honor of African Heritage Month, City Hall will be lighted in black, green, red, and yellow.
Pan-African Flag on Viola Desmond Ferry
In recognition of African Heritage Month, the Pan-African flag will be flown on the Viola Desmond Ferry throughout the entire month of February.
More events and other activities to celebrate African Heritage Month at https://www.halifax.ca/about-halifax/diversity-inclusion/african-nova-scotian-affairs/african-heritage-month
References:
https://novascotia.ca/
https://www.halifax.ca/
Photo credits to: https://www.ahm.bccnsweb.com/wp/2023-african-heritage-month-poster/
