AMHERST, N.S. – African history has been interwoven with Nova Scotian history for centuries.
That history was highlighted during the launch of African Heritage Month at the Dr. Carson & Marion Murray Community Centre in Springhill on Feb. 1.
“African Nova Scotia history is a shared history for all Nova Scotians, especially here in Cumberland County,” said Elizabeth Cooke‐Sumbu, CANSA executive director and a director of the African‐Nova Scotia Network during the launch.
The provincial theme for 2019 is ‘Our History is Your History.’
“This theme encompasses all the contributions made by members of the African Nova Scotian community,” said Cooke-Sumbu.
During the launch, a poster was unveiled. The poster features a patchwork quilt depicting the history of African Nova Scotian’s and the many contributions they’ve made to the province.
“The quilt symbolizes how we are connected to each other, held together by threads, which are our personal strength,” said Cooke-Sumbu. “The fabric, which is uniquely different and woven and stitched with care, is there for us to remember all we’ve been and all we aspire to be.”
Allison Gillis, warden for Cumberland County, read the proclamation to kick off African Heritage Month in Cumberland County, and encouraged people to take part in African Heritage Month events.
“We encourage residents, businesses, and community groups to participate in the activities and celebrations and to take the opportunity to reflect on the story of Nova Scotia’s vibrant Nova Scotia community,” said Gillis.
Upcoming African Heritage Month events in Cumberland County are as follows:
Feb. 21 – And Still I Rise, featuring keynote speaker Jason McLean, NSGEU president, at the Community Credit Union Business Innovation Centre in Amherst at 6:30 p.m. The event features roast beef and roast turkey dinner and entertainment. Tickets are $15, advance only, and are available at CANSA. Proceeds support CANSA’s annual scholarships.
March 1 – Our History is Your History concert at the Dr. Carson and Marion Murray Community Centre in Springhill at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 in advance at the community centre and CANSA, and $10 at the door.
