52 communities. 400 years.
Nova Scotia is home to over 50 historic Black communities, many founded by Black Loyalists, Maroons, and Black Refugees who arrived between the 18th and 19th centuries.
What these stories carry
- 01Triumph, not just struggle
- 02Legacy and recognition
- 03Culture preserved
- 04Justice pursued
A history written in resilience
historic Black communities across Nova Scotia, many founded by Black Loyalists, Maroons, and Black Refugees who arrived between the 18th and 19th centuries.
years of settlement, endurance, and culture preserved against systemic racism, land inequities, and economic marginalization.
Their stories are not just about struggle. They are about triumph, legacy, and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition. Despite systemic racism, land inequities, and economic marginalization, these communities have preserved their unique culture, traditions, and sense of identity. 902 Man Up works to document, preserve, and celebrate them.
Four arrivals, one legacy
- 1700s
Black Loyalists
Thousands arrived after the American Revolution, promised land and freedom, founding some of the earliest free Black settlements in North America.
- 1796
The Maroons
Jamaican Maroons, exiled for resisting colonial rule, brought their fierce independence to Nova Scotia and helped build Halifax's fortifications.
- 1812–1816
Black Refugees
Refugees of the War of 1812 settled across the province, establishing communities that endure to this day.
- Today
Living legacy
Over 50 communities collectively represent the enduring presence and contributions of African Nova Scotians to the province's history, culture, and society.
Africville · remembered
Their stories are not just about struggle. They are about triumph, legacy, and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.
This is not just a cause. It is a movement.
Break the cycle.Fund the future.
With your support we can break cycles of violence, uplift our communities, and create a brighter future for Black youth everywhere. Your partnership fuels the change we envision.