Halifax, N.S.— TD Presents African Heritage Month 2025 at Halifax Public Libraries kicks off with the 41st annual Opening Night Celebration, opens a new window on January 22, 7:00 pm at Halifax Central Library. This gathering of community leaders, dignitaries, and talented local artists marks the first of many free events honouring African Heritage Month at the Library, and invites community members of all ages to take part in meaningful conversations on culture and celebrate the African Nova Scotian experience.
“This year’s theme, Legacy in Action: Celebrating Black Brilliance, is a testament to the change that comes from reflecting on our past, addressing the impact of anti-Black racism on African Nova Scotians, and building a shared path forward,” says Crystal Mulder, Community Specialist at Halifax Public Libraries and co-chair of the Black History Month Association. “African Heritage Month is all about honouring our changemakers, and celebrating the excellence we see coming out of our communities.”
“The Library is a space for connection and exploration, and African Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, have important conversations, and be inspired by one another,” says Åsa Kachan, CEO and Chief Librarian of Halifax Public Libraries. “We’re honoured to work with local organizations and our funding partners to offer programs that reflect the talent and resilience of the communities we serve.”
TD Bank Group (TD) returns as the presenting sponsor of African Heritage Month 2025 at Halifax Public Libraries, thanks to funding through its corporate citizenship platform, the TD Ready Commitment. With their generous support, along with our long-standing partnership with the Black History Month Association, Halifax Public Libraries is able to deliver impactful African heritage programming through February and beyond.
"Black stories and culture enrich and help shape our shared experiences and reflect the diversity of our local communities. Through the TD Ready Commitment, we're proud to present African Heritage Month 2025 at Halifax Public Libraries. Together we celebrate the richness of Black culture, elevate Black voices, spark meaningful conversations, and strengthen community connections." - Jenn Auld, Vice President Atlantic Region, TD Canada Trust.
Marquee Events
With more than 30 free events already scheduled on the Library’s “What’s On” calendar, opens a new window and at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/ahm, opens a new window, community members are invited to attend musical performances, workshops, and lecture-based conversations for all ages, designed to foster connection and share knowledge. Highlights include:
- Jan. 22, Opening Night
- Feb. 8, George Elliott Clarke, D.D. Jackson & Halifax Public Libraries Present: 5 Poets Breaking into Song (#16) - Saltwater Spirituals & Uppity Blues II
- Feb. 11, Lift Every Voice
- Feb. 25, Halifax Humanities Lecture
Throughout February, attendees can also expect annual favourites to return for this year’s celebration, such as Lift Every Voice, TD Jazz Festival showcases, and the ever-popular Youth Quiz. These events and more will soon appear on the Library’s event calendar, alongside the cooking workshops, art exhibitions, storytimes, and film screenings already listed.
Join the Celebration
The Halifax Public Libraries website is your go-to destination for African heritage celebrations and education, all year round. For more programs, performances, reading lists, and updates to our event calendar, visit halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/ahm, opens a new window, or follow us @hfxpublib on social media.
Sign up for the Library’s e-newsletter to stay informed year-round at halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/email, opens a new window.
