Black and Bluenose (2nd ed)

Nova Scotia is the cradle of an African Canadian community that has existed for hundreds of years. During that time, Black Nova Scotians have shared triumphs and tragedies similar to those other communities of colour in North America, yet they have also developed a culture that is unique.

The years between 1989 and 1998 proved to be eventful for the Black community in Nova Scotia. The province saw the election of the first Black member of the legislature, the first Black judge as well as a revival of music, art and writing. During that time there were also successful anti-racism programs and affirmative action in schools and in the workplace.

But there were also upheavals and setbacks as well, including racial fights at high schools, violence in the streets, high unemployment and continued inequality along with community outrage over the forced relocation of the residents of Africville.

Charles Saunders wrote extensively about these events in the Halifax Daily News. Black and Bluenose documents that time period of Canada?s oldest and largest indigenous community. Saunders writes with passion and insight about the issues that were close to his heart and an understanding of the historical forces that shaped the headlines of that era.