In a January 27th launch event held at the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, the province of Nova Scotia began its celebration of African Heritage Month 2026.
You can watch the full recording of the 2026 African Heritage Month Provincial Launch & Proclamation here.
Taking place each year over the month of February, African Heritage Month is a time to recognize the history, culture, and contributions of individuals of African descent and to acknowledge the unique role African Nova Scotians have played within our province.
This year’s provincial theme for African Heritage Month is “Strength in Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress.”
“The theme speaks to the power that comes when African Nova Scotians and people of African descent stand together with a shared sense of direction. It recognizes unity as an active force for change that strengthens communities, advances justice, and creates new opportunities”, says a press release from the Black Cultural Centre.
“At the heart of this strength are our elders, whose wisdom, stories and leadership continue to guide us. As knowledge keepers and culture bearers, they remind us of where we have come from and what it has taken to get here”
“Strength in Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress” is a call to action,” says Twila Grosse, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs.
“Unity has always been a source of strength for African Nova Scotians and People of African descent, sustaining us through generations of challenge and change. By honouring our elders and standing together, we create opportunities and shape a future where our leadership, culture, and contributions are reflected in every part of this province.”
To help Nova Scotians celebrate, a list of province-wide events celebrating the month can be found on the Black Cultural Centre Community Calendar page. You can also learn more about Black History in Nova Scotia by visiting the Black Cultural Centre’s Our History page.
African Nova Scotians are a distinct people who form part of over 52 historical land-based communities, whose histories, legacies, and contributions have enriched Nova Scotia for over 400 years. The NSBS is proud to celebrate African Heritage Month and do our part to recognize the important history, culture, and lived experience of African Nova Scotians past, present, and future.