HALIFAX — Nova Scotia is set to install signs marking the 52 historic African Nova Scotian communities throughout the province, a significant move aimed at acknowledging and celebrating the province's rich Black heritage.

The motion was introduced by NDP member Suzy Hansen in the legislature on Friday and passed unanimously without any debate. Hansen expressed her emotional gratitude over the rare show of unity among all parties, stating, “I think this is a huge step forward in recognizing us as a distinct people in Nova Scotia." She emphasized her joy about the support from all political factions.

In an interview following the motion's passage, Hansen shared her feelings about the impact these signs will have. "It was very emotional... just now realizing that across the province all of our 52 communities will have signage that expresses who we are as a community and the impact that we’ve made as African Nova Scotians," she remarked.

Notable historic Black communities such as Shelburne, Africville, Cherry Brook, Sydney, and East and North Preston will be among those receiving signs. The aim is for the signage to reflect the unique histories and identities of these communities, as indicated by Ama Lorenz, a spokesperson for African Nova Scotian Affairs. The department plans to engage with the communities concerning the design and wording of the signs.

The history of Black Nova Scotians dates back to between 1782 and 1785, when approximately 3,500 Black Loyalists fled the United States following the American Revolution, arriving in Nova Scotia as one of the first major groups of Black settlers. Around 1,500 of these Loyalists made their settlement in Shelburne County. Although they were promised land, protection, and freedom, the Black Loyalists did not receive the necessary support, rations, or fertile land as promised. Many were instead compelled to work on public roads and in construction roles.

By 1792, in an act of desperation, more than 1,100 settlers left Halifax on 15 ships heading to Sierra Leone, with around 65 individuals perishing during the journey. Post the War of 1812, about 2,000 Black refugees, primarily from the southern United States, sought refuge in Nova Scotia, with an estimated 400 moving to New Brunswick. In Nova Scotia, many of these individuals settled in communities such as Preston, Hammonds Plains, and Beechville.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 notes that the government had not granted outright land ownership to these settlers and settled them in areas with rocky and infertile soil, which severely limited agricultural possibilities. This neglect led to extreme poverty for many of the settlers.

Despite facing marginalization and poverty, the Black refugees made significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Nova Scotia, establishing vibrant communities throughout the province. The museum states, "Despite their marginalization and impoverishment, the Black Refugees made valuable contributions to Nova Scotia’s cultural fabric as they established enduring communities throughout the province."

Hansen believes that the signage will instill a sense of pride among the communities. She anticipates that Nova Scotians and visitors alike will take notice of these signs as they travel across the province. "I think this will give us recognition... show our province and Canada how we appreciate African Nova Scotian communities and their impact on our province," she added.

This landmark initiative not only emphasizes the importance of African Nova Scotian history but also fosters a wider understanding and appreciation of the significant contributions these communities have made to Nova Scotia and beyond.