**** Halifax Libraries Release
TD Presents African Heritage Month at Halifax Public Libraries
African Heritage Month at Halifax Public Libraries returns with in-person programs and performances for all ages. More than 35 workshops, performances, and community conversations are scheduled for February and beyond.
This year’s program has been developed in collaboration with the African Nova Scotian community, and focuses on themes of family, stories, connections, and exploring genealogy through community and public library resources.
“For the 39th edition, we’re celebrating how African Nova Scotians are connected, from shore to shore, community to community, and family to family,” says Crystal Mulder, African Nova Scotian Community Specialist at Halifax Public Libraries and co-chair of Black History Month Association. “The theme explores the importance of documenting our narratives, and sharing our stories through new and traditional ways, such as passing on recipes and musical excellence. We’re excited for everything our community has to share and explore.”
TD Presents African Heritage Month at Halifax Public Libraries launched with the annual favourite Opening Night at Halifax North Memorial Public Library on January 26 and will continue with events featuring prominent artists, such as George Elliott Clarke, Evelyn C. White, Shauntay Grant, Moashelle Shortte, Jess Marie, and a full stage of talent at Lift Every Voice 8. There will be films with the NFB and food workshops with Mary Nkrumah.
Marquee Events at a Glance
Jan. 16-Feb. 6, Elevate & Explore Black Nova Scotia: Virtual Travel Series
Jan. 26, Opening Night
Feb. 4, Genealogy: Celebrating Those Who Chose to Stay – Allistair Barton
Feb. 6 & 8, Eat Fufu with Mary
Feb. 11, Mar 11 & 25, Moashella Shortte & Mirror
Feb. 11, Jess Marie & Brown Like Me
Feb. 11, Storytime with Shauntay Grant
Feb. 12, George Elliott Clarke Presents 5 Poets Breaking Into Song
Feb. 16 & 23, Lift Every Voice 8, showcases
Feb. 28, Black Family Hair Matters, Samantha Dixon
Mar. 9, Girlfriend, Talk About It: Toni Morrison & bell hooks (Evelyn C White)
“Sharing stories and deepening our understanding of one another are priorities for the Library, and this is heavily reflected in African Heritage Month programming this year,” says Åsa Kachan, CEO and Chief Librarian of Halifax Public Libraries. “In the coming month, and beyond, community will have the opportunity to explore more family stories through free resources and genealogy workshops. We are also excited to return to more in-person community celebrations. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Library.”
TD Bank Group (TD) is the presenting sponsor of African Heritage Month 2023 at Halifax Public Libraries through its corporate citizenship platform, the TD Ready Commitment. Thanks to their support, the Library is able to host and share a wide variety of African Heritage programs and content year-round.
“At TD, we’re proud to support African Heritage Month events and year-round programming that help bring people together, amplify Black voices, celebrate Black culture, and advocate for change,” says Jennifer Auld, Vice President, TD Canada Trust – Atlantic Region. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, our corporate citizenship platform, we’re working with organizations like Halifax Public Libraries that are creating vibrant and diverse experiences that can be shared by all.”
Halifax Public Libraries is committed to sharing and celebrating African Nova Scotia Heritage throughout the year. New in-person and online events, performances and learning opportunities are available at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/ahm.
You can also sign up for the Library’s e-newsletter for year-round notifications at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/email.
