The 29th annual African Heritage Month has already begun with lots of events for people to check out.
Crystal Mulder, director of the Black History Month Association, said despite the nearly 30 years since the events inception, the meaning remains the same.
"It is the kick-off to taking the time to recognize more fully the contributions of African Nova Scotians, not just in Halifax, but across the province, Canada and the world," said Mulder.
"We try to keep a very international flavour because the African community is very much so tied to one another through a shared history and a shared experience that transcends borders, languages and religions," she said. "Twent-nine years just means that there's a lot that has been done and there's still a lot more to do."
The theme for this year is ‘Then and Now: Our Journey Continues.' It's a chance to look back at the history and contributions of African Nova Scotians in shaping the province, according to the African Nova Scotian Affairs website. It's also about today's communities, exploring changes that have occurred and ways to ensure a bright future.
"As a ninth generation African Nova Scotian, the ability to celebrate and share my own history and culture is what African Heritage Month is about for me, the ability to take whatever knowledge I have and impart it to the next generation," Mulder said at this month's kick off event. "It's also a chance for me to learn from them and live their experiences."
With more than 75 events happening across the province, it can be hard to keep track of everything going on. African Nova Scotian Affairs is hoping to make that easier by listing everything on their website - ansa.novascotia.ca
The libraries can also provide many resources including pamphlets to help participants discover events happening in their community such as puppet shows, films, trivia, guest speakers and more.
And although this is one of the biggest African Heritage Months yet, The Black History Month Association is already planning a big celebration in 2014.
"We are already planning for the big 30th year, we are excited, the table is a little small right now, but it can grow," said Mulder. "We're asking anyone, and you don't have to be African Nova Scotian, if you're interested in the culture or want to celebrate it, please call the Halifax Public Libraries and they'll put you in touch with somebody that can help you participate with the Black History Association."
Quick Facts
• Participation continues to grow with more than 75 events taking place across the province this year.
• The poster and calendar of events was produced by the African Heritage Month Information Network, a partnership between African Nova Scotian Affairs, African Nova Scotian Music Association, African Nova Scotian North-Central Network, African Heritage Month Southwest Network, Africville Heritage Trust, Black History Month Association, Cumberland African Nova Scotian Association, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association.
• Nova Scotians can also keep up to date on African Heritage Month events on Facebook (African Nova Scotian Affairs), on Twitter (@OfficeofANSA), or by calling the African Heritage Month events line at 902-424-1186.
