On January 28 at 7 p.m., Halifax Public Libraries launches the 2021 TD Presents African Heritage Month with the annual Opening Night Celebration live on YouTube. Opening Night is a virtual sharing of greetings from local community leaders and dignitaries, and performances by local musicians. With events scheduled into April, the Library in partnership with the Black History Month Association offers meaningful cultural conversations, community voices, and celebrations.
“Saying Black History Matters is one way to move forward together,” says Crystal Mulder, Co-chair of Halifax’s Black History Month Association and Supervisor at Dartmouth North Public Library. “When we learn, listen, share, and act together, change is inevitable. As celebrations grow and become more meaningful, we look forward to seeing our friends, familiar and new, as we forge lasting bonds of community and shared knowledge."
“We are proud that the Library is a place where we all can explore ideas, share knowledge, and celebrate together,” says Åsa Kachan, Chief Librarian and CEO of Halifax Public Libraries. "We encourage everyone to participate. Find events where you can listen, be inspired, and contribute to important conversations."
Opening Night marks the first of many free events offering a variety of experiences for all ages. The majority of African Heritage Month programs will be hosted virtually this year - creating new ways to learn, share, and connect with people and programs. Events are scheduled well into April 2021, and include African Nova Scotian legacy projects, food and cooking events, and collaborative art initiatives.
“The TD Ready Commitment works to build a more inclusive Canada, and we are excited once again to support all of the unique contributions African Heritage Month brings to life,” says Jennifer Auld, Vice President, Atlantic Region, TD Bank Group. “When we take the time to feature the many individual and community achievements and aspirations, we can all enjoy and be inspired by the promise of tomorrow."
TD Presents African Heritage Month at Halifax Public Libraries is made possible by the generous support of the TD Ready Commitment and our long-standing partnership with the Black History Month Association. Events are taking place from January to April. Everyone is encouraged to visit the Library website at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/ahm, opens a new window often for updates and additions.
