Melanistic Magazine - Vol 9

BLACK COMMUNITY AND HISTORY BEYOND ALBERTA

When exploring Canada’s Black History, one of the overwhelming challenges is the fragmented documentation of these Black experiences. The conversations are then further limited between Provinces;

BC Black History Awareness Society

Originally launched in the 70’s the society as we know it today is a comprehensive resource on the history of the Black community in BC. They host a range of events and awareness programs to keep the community heritage alive and well. They also have a comprehensive digital museum inclusive of stories and photos showcasing generations of Western Canada Black community history. bcblackhistory.ca/

Saskatchewan African Canadian Heritage Museum

This virtual museum was launched to provide access to research, documentation and stories related to the journeys of those of African descent who have lived and continue to live in Saskatchewan. The collection covers a range of topics from the early history of the Black community to more recent accomplishments in a variety of disciplines. sachm.org

It is easy to forget that each Province has its own stories, and those stories collectively allow us to gain a better understanding of the tapestry of the Black community in Canada. We have put together a short organizations in other Provinces that are working to preserve Black Canadian History and may help provide a more complete perspective on the history of the Black Community in Canada.

Black Cultural Society of PEI

Yes, indeed we do have a Black community in PEI and back in 2016 a group came together to form the cultural society with the goal of keeping the community’s heritage alive and to be a resource for those seeking information on the Black community in PEI. Here you find information on community programs and Black owned Businesses on the island. bcspei.ca/

Black Loyalist Heritage Center, Nova Scotia

You may have heard the story of the ‘Book of Negroes’ which is a record of Black settlers who arrived in Nova Scotia during the 1700’s. These settlers, called Loyalists, created one of the largest free Black settlements in North America. Their life and journey are memorialized at the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre. blackloyalist.com