CELEBRATING EXCEPTIONAL NOVA SCOTIA SOCIAL WORKERS At the College’s 2019 conference we recognized the contributions of social workers in our province. Congratulations to all of our award recipients! Photos contributed by Michelle Doucette.
ABOVE: Geraldine Browning
Honourary NSCSW membership GERALDINE BROWNING Geraldine Browning grew up in Nova Scotia, in Gibson Woods and East Preston. As a teenager in the 1950s, she set her ambitions on becoming a social worker or nurse. The principal of her school told her that she would never be able to become either in Nova Scotia, because she was Black.
Many groups that exist to this day have benefited from her
Although Mrs. Browning was denied access to the profession of social work, her work and life continued to exemplify core social work values of respect for the inherent dignity and worth of persons, pursuit of social justice, and service to humanity. She was a teacher, a nurse, a parent, and a community organizer and advocate. She has worked tirelessly in her communities to counter racism and discrimination; promote literacy and education; and protect women, children, and elders from violence and abuse.
with students at schools and universities. Mrs. Browning has
efforts as a founder or board member, including the Black Business Initiative, the Black Cultural Society, and the Valley African Nova Scotia Development Association. She has continued to volunteer in her community, and shares her story received an honourary Doctor of Humanities degree from Acadia University, and the Order of Nova Scotia. This year, the College was pleased to be able to honour Mrs. Browning with an honorary lifetime membership. We are grateful that so many in our province have been affected by her life’s work.
Fall 2019 | Connection 25
