African Heritage Month launches in Valley
A number of family events highlight this year's African Heritage Month celebrations, which begin today, Jan. 27, in the Annapolis Valley.
The Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association (VANSDA) has worked with the community to develop a calendar of events to celebrate the 25 anniversary of African Heritage Month.
"In the 25 years that groups have formally recognized the significance of our heritage, we have seen tremendous change," said Robert Ffrench, VANSDA executive director. "It is important, however, that we never forget where we have come from to ensure that the legacy and efforts made in the past are never forgotten."
It is in that spirit of remembrance that VANSDA celebrates the month with events like the inaugural quiz bowl and the unveiling of a commemorative panel on the Matthieu DaCosta Heritage Trail.
"The first annual quiz bowl pits four local Grade 8 students against teams from KROC Radio, Acadia University and TD Bank Financial Group," said Mr. French. "The teams have been reviewing the facts for a while and are eager to discover which team will become champion. It promises to be a great time and an excellent education on African Nova Scotian history."
On Wednesday, Feb. 11, VANSDA will officially unveil the Ben Jackson commemorative panel in Hantsport as part of the Matthieu DaCosta Heritage Trail. The panel details the history of Ben Jackson, an African Nova Scotian civil war hero who settled in Hantsport in the late 19th century. The heritage trail is a VANSDA initiative to develop a tourist attraction dedicated to recognizing the history of African Nova Scotians.
"The events taking place this month in the Valley, and all over Nova Scotia, give community members an opportunity to interact, to learn from one another and to celebrate the important history and contributions of African Nova Scotians," said Barry Barnet, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.
To complete the month, VANSDA will host From the Heart of Nova Scotia -- A Gospel Experience at Acadia University, on Saturday, Feb. 28. The evening of gospel celebration is produced by the African Nova Scotian Music Association. Proceeds will be donated to an entrance scholarship fund that annually recognizes two African Nova Scotian students pursuing post-secondary educations.
For information on African Heritage Month and a list of events being held provincewide, visit the African Nova Scotian Affairs website at www.gov.ns.ca/ansa or call the events line at 424-3482.