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List of Black Nova Scotians facts for kids

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Black Nova Scotians are people of African descent who live in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. Their history in the region goes back over 250 years. Many of them are descendants of Black Loyalists who came to Nova Scotia after the American Revolutionary War. Others came from the Caribbean or were formerly enslaved people from the United States.

Over the years, Black Nova Scotians have made huge contributions to Canada in many fields. This list highlights some of the notable people who have helped shape Nova Scotia and the country. They have excelled in politics, arts, sports, and more, showing great strength and talent.

Important Leaders in Politics

This section introduces Black Nova Scotians who have held important roles in government and public service. They have worked to make laws and represent their communities.

  • Wayne Adams
  • Yvonne Atwell
  • Wanda Thomas Bernard: She is a Canadian Senator, which means she helps make laws for the whole country.
  • Mayann Francis: She was the first Black woman to be the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia. This is a very important role, representing the King or Queen in the province.
  • Daurene Lewis: She made history as the first Black woman mayor in Canada. She also received the Order of Canada, a high honor for Canadians.
  • Donald Oliver: He was the first Black man to have a seat in the Senate of Canada. He also received the Order of Canada.
  • Calvin Ruck: He was recognized with the Order of Canada for his contributions.
  • Bill White

Talented Artists and Performers

This section features Black Nova Scotians who have shared their creativity through music, acting, writing, and other art forms.

  • Gary Beals: An R&B musician known for his soulful voice.
  • Keonte Beals: Another R&B musician, bringing modern sounds to the genre.
  • Walter Borden: A respected actor who has performed in many plays and films.
  • George Boyd: A talented playwright and journalist.
  • George Elliott Clarke: A famous poet and playwright. He often writes about Black Canadian experiences.
  • Sterling Jarvis: A singer and actor who has performed on stage and screen.
  • Carshae Beals: An R&B musician and actor.
  • Cy McLean: A skilled pianist and band leader who brought joy through music.
  • Kaleb Simmonds: An R&B musician.
  • Faith Nolan: A folk and jazz musician known for her powerful songs.
  • Rob "Blye" Paris of Citizen Kane: A rapper.
  • Jamie Sparks: An R&B singer and composer, and brother of Jeremiah Sparks.
  • Nelson Symonds: A jazz guitarist known for his amazing musical talent.
  • Maxine Tynes: A poet and educator whose words have inspired many.
  • Portia White: A world-famous operatic contralto singer. She was one of the first Black Canadian concert singers to gain international fame.

Filmmakers and Directors

This section highlights individuals who work behind the scenes and in front of the camera to create movies and TV shows.

  • Cory Bowles: An actor and director, known for his work in film and television.

Amazing Athletes

This section celebrates Black Nova Scotians who have achieved greatness in sports, from boxing to hockey and basketball.

Brave Veterans and Soldiers

This section honors Black Nova Scotians who served in the military, protecting their country.

  • William Hall: He received the Victoria Cross, the highest military award for bravery.
  • Benjamin Jackson: A sailor and soldier who served in the American Civil War.
  • Jeremiah Jones: A soldier who served in World War I.
  • Joseph B. Noil: A sailor who received the Medal of Honor for his bravery.
  • Isaac Phills: A World War I soldier and recipient of the Order of Canada.
  • William A. White: A chaplain for the No. 2 Construction Battalion in the Canadian Army during World War I.
  • Three Black Nova Scotians served in the American Civil War in the 54th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry: Hammel Gilyer, Samuel Hazzard, and Thomas Page.

Important Activists and Community Leaders

This section highlights individuals who worked to bring about positive change and fight for fairness and equality in their communities.

  • Carrie Best: A journalist and social activist who fought for civil rights.
  • Viola Desmond: A businesswoman and civil rights advocate. She famously challenged racial segregation in Nova Scotia.
  • Burnley "Rocky" Jones: A political activist who worked for justice and equality.
  • El Jones: An activist known for her work in social justice.
  • Joan Jones: A political activist and businesswoman.
  • William Pearly Oliver
  • Calvin W. Ruck: An author known for his book The Black Battalion, which tells the story of Black Canadian soldiers.
  • Quentrel Provo: The founder of Stop the Violence in Nova Scotia, working to make communities safer.

Other Notable Black Nova Scotians

This section includes other important individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields.

  • Rose Fortune: She is considered the first Black woman police officer in Canada.
  • Donald D. Skeir: A respected pastor and teacher.
  • James Robinson Johnston: A lawyer and community leader who worked to support his community.
  • Beverly Mascoll: A successful businesswoman.
  • Maurice Ruddick (1912–1988): He was named citizen of the year for his brave actions during the 1958 Springhill Mining Disaster.
  • Corrine Sparks: She was the first African Nova Scotian to be appointed as a judge and the first African Canadian woman to serve on the bench.
  • Edith Hester McDonald-Brown: She is considered the first documented Black female painter in Canadian art history.
  • John Paris Jr.: He was the first Black person to coach a professional hockey team.
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