This year’s African Heritage Month theme, “Strength in Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress,” is a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of collective action. It speaks to the strength that emerges when African Nova Scotians and people of African descent unite with a shared vision. Unity is not just a concept, it is an active force for change that strengthens communities, advances justice, and creates new opportunities.
This year’s theme also reflects the ongoing journey beyond the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent. It calls on us to carry forward the principles of recognition, justice, and development, harnessing our collective wisdom, resilience, and creativity to build prosperity in all its forms—cultural, social, economic, and spiritual.
A legacy of resilience & contribution
The origins of African Heritage Month trace back to 1926, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week to recognize the achievements of African Americans. Over time, this observance expanded, becoming Black History Month in 1976 and officially recognized in Canada in 1995. Nova Scotia has been a leader in this recognition, establishing African Heritage Month in 1996 and continuing to honor the profound influence of African Nova Scotians on the province’s cultural and social fabric.
From the Black Loyalists and the Maroons to the Southern American Black Refugees, the history of African Nova Scotians is marked by resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Their stories are central to our shared history and underscore the need for recognition, justice, and restitution.
Social work’s commitment to reparations
As social workers, we have a moral and material obligation to address the deep-rooted history of anti-Black racism in Nova Scotia and Canada. The Nova Scotia College of Social Workers is unequivocally committed to reparations, an essential step toward healing and justice. Reparations go beyond monetary redress; they encompass a comprehensive approach to addressing historical and systemic injustices through five key forms:
- Restitution: Restoring lost rights and reversing the injuries endured by African Nova Scotians and their ancestors.
- Compensation: Providing economic redress for damages caused by systemic discrimination in areas like employment and healthcare.
- Rehabilitation: Restoring land, acknowledging stolen intellectual properties, and offering services that foster healing and recovery.
- Satisfaction: Public apologies, commemorations, and tributes to honor the victims and survivors of historical injustices.
- Guarantees of Non-repetition: Preventing future violations through ethical codes of conduct, education, and awareness.
These principles are enshrined in the College’s new Code of Ethics, which emphasizes the importance of advocating for the rights of African Nova Scotians and persons of African descent. Social workers are called to build their knowledge of systemic hate, inequities, and anti-Black racism, applying an Africentric approach to their practice. This includes understanding and respecting African traditional cultures, communities, and support systems, and striving for equity in all aspects of their work.
Moving forward together
The theme “Strength in Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress” is a call to action. It reminds us that unity has always been a source of strength for African Nova Scotians, sustaining them through generations of challenge and change. By honouring our elders, standing together, and committing to reparative practices, we can create opportunities and shape a future where the leadership, culture, and contributions of African Nova Scotians are reflected in every part of this province.
As we celebrate African Heritage Month, let us also renew our commitment to equity, justice, and respect for human rights. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society—one that honors the past while moving forward with purpose, prosperity, power, and progress.
Related opportunities
NSCSW events
- Feb 27 — Virtual community of practice for Black / African descent social workers only
- Mar 27 — Lunch & learn: Black joy in helping & healing practices
Partner events
- Feb 12 — Panel Discussion on: African-centred Approaches to Black Health (Dalhousie School of Social Work Diversity & Equity Committee, evening conversation series)
- Feb 26 — Panel Discussion on: African-centred Approaches to Black Health (Dalhousie School of Social Work Diversity & Equity Committee, evening conversation series)
- Feb 27 — 30 years of Black History Month: Honouring social work in the Black community Across Generations (CASW)
- Feb 28 — National Africentric Social Work Circle (CASW)
Community events
Check the Black Cultural Centre community calendar for events scheduled throughout the province.