The Black community of Nova Scotia is taking additional safety precautions for the upcoming 2024 Africville Family Reunion, following a tragic shooting incident that occurred at last year’s event. During the previous reunion, shots were fired, resulting in injuries to five individuals, with one person sustaining critical injuries.
Despite the traumatic event, the community remains determined to celebrate this year, prioritizing safety measures throughout the reunion. Irvine Carvery, the President of the Africville Genealogy Society, highlighted that a thorough safety audit was conducted post-incident, leading to improvements such as enhanced lighting at the National Historic Site where the reunion will take place.
The Africville Genealogy Society has also taken the initiative to request a stronger police presence at the event. Additionally, a registration system has been implemented to monitor vehicles entering and exiting the park, located in Halifax’s north end. This proactive approach aims to ensure a safer environment for attendees.
Halifax Regional Police Chief Don MacLean emphasized the community's right to gather without fear of violence, describing the past shooting as senseless and tragic. He acknowledged the lasting impact the event has had on people across different age groups within the community.
In the year following the shooting, law enforcement officials have undertaken extensive investigations, completing over 100 judicial authorizations and interviewing more than 200 individuals. However, despite these efforts, police have indicated that each piece of evidence has yet to lead to a breakthrough in the case.
In an effort to encourage community members to come forward with information, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice added the Africville shooting to the Major Unsolved Crimes Program in April. This program includes a substantial reward of $150,000 for information that leads to an arrest, but it remains unclaimed to date.
Chief MacLean addressed the community, acknowledging the challenges individuals face when deciding to speak with law enforcement. He recognized that fears, distrust, and safety concerns are valid, but he urged community members to consider sharing information as an act of courage for the well-being of their community. He reassured attendees that the police are committed to fostering an environment in which they can safely celebrate their history and culture without the threat of violence.
Authorities are encouraging anyone with details about the incident to contact the police at 902-490-5020 or reach out to the Major Unsolved Crimes Program at 1-888-710-9090. There is also the option to submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
– With files from The Canadian Press
