New Structure for Equity, Anti-Racism Work

Provincial equity and anti-racism initiatives are being realigned to provide increased departmental support and closer ties to anti-racism work happening throughout government.

The Land Titles Initiative will return to African Nova Scotian Affairs, where it was originally established in 2017. As this change occurs, the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives will move to the Department of Justice.

“The Land Titles Initiative serves historic African Nova Scotian communities, and we’ve heard from community members that it should return to African Nova Scotian Affairs to be more connected to communities,” said Pat Dunn, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs. “We’ve listened, and we’re making that happen.”

With the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives moving to the Department of Justice, the department will assume responsibility for the Dismantling Racism and Hate Act, passed in spring 2022. Work continues on the provincial equity and anti-racism strategy due this summer.

“We remain deeply committed to equity and anti-racism across government,” said Justice Minister Brad Johns. “These changes will help enhance the good work already happening and bring stronger alignment to our focus on equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion.”

Quick Facts:

• the Land Titles Initiative was established in 2017 to address historic wrongs and help African Nova Scotians in the communities of North Preston, East Preston, Cherry Brook/Lake Loon, Lincolnville, and Sunnyville gain clear title to their land
• the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives was established in March 2021

Additional Resources
Land Titles Initiative website: https://novascotia.ca/land-titles/