A Mighty Long Way
African Heritage Month begins today. Also known as Black History Month, February has been set aside as an opportunity for us to recognize contributions past and present of the African community to Canadian culture. How has it impacted where you live?
We recognize the significant influence of Black Canadians in Atlantic Canada and especially within the CABC. Black Loyalist David George founded the first Black Baptist Church in the Shelburne area in the 1780s. The African United Baptist Association (AUBA) was formed in 1854 by Rev. Richard Preston, an escaped slave from Virginia who arrived in Nova Scotia in 1818. The AUBA plays an important role in the community by providing education opportunities, as a trailblazer for social change and a strong voice for hundreds of black families throughout Nova Scotia.
Resource for churches: Beth Wood has developed a kids kit for churches. “Gwayu – Respect” is a great resource offering ministry ideas for youth and kids. It includes: History, Culture, Privilege, Crafts, Snacks, Games – everything you need for a great kids program during African Heritage Month. This project was launched for Nova Scotia but can be used by any church. The PDF is available for download here: https://baptist-atlantic.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/African-Heritage-Month-KIDSKIT.pdf (also view below). There is an expanded kit that includes this material in print form, “Up Home” book by Shauntay Grant, The Children of Africville book, The Viola Desmond Story on DVD, as well as brochures from places of interest in Nova Scotia where people of all ages can learn more. Cost is $20. To request this and inquire about availability/shipping, contact Beth Wood: bethwood@vineyard.ca. Check out this Facebook page as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1394887907476883/.
African Heritage Month Forum – February 12, 7-9pm – Vineyard Ministry Centre, Lower Sackville, NS. A community forum with Rev. Dr. Lennett Anderson, Kesa Munroe-Anderson, Rev. Dr. Rhonda Britton and Chad Lucas (moderator). All are welcome!
More links:
The contribution by the African community to the the life of the church is rich. We encourage you to take time this month to learn, share and celebrate.