In this episode, Lynn Jones to explore the rich history and ongoing impact of the Lynn Jones African Canadian & Diaspora Collection. Lynn shares stories from her decades of activism, the challenges and triumphs of Black youth organizing in Nova Scotia, and the importance of preserving community history.  Episode Highlights: The origins and significance of the Lynn Jones Collection Black youth activism and the Black United Front The importance of community archives and accessibility Environmental racism and the fight for justice The ongoing movement for reparations The global reach of the collection and connections to sports, culture, and activism Intergenerational activism and advice for future leaders This episode builds on the foundation set in Part 1, offering even more wisdom, inspiration, and practical takeaways for listeners passionate about history, culture, and community. Credits: Hosted by Itai Kuwodza, Graham Nickerson, Laurice Downey and Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) as part of the LCCS Forum Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Missed Part 1? Go back and listen to the first episode in this series to get the full story! Connect with Us: Listen, like, follow, and share the Loyalist Connections Podcast on your favorite platform Follow us on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content Thank you for joining us for this two-part journey. Stay connected, keep the conversation going, and help us preserve and celebrate our shared history!

Welcome to the first episode of our special two-part series on the Loyalist Connections Podcast! In this episode, we examine storytelling as both an art form and a vital tool of cultural preservation. Joining us are two distinguished scholars and community voices — Dr. Afua Cooper and Dr. Lynn Jones — who share their insights on heritage, memory, and the enduring work of documenting Black history in Nova Scotia. What to Expect in Part 1: The personal journeys and community connections of Dr. Cooper and Dr. Jones The legacy of Black Loyalists in Canada and the Atlantic world The power of archives, storytelling, and oral history in preserving Black heritage Uncovering hidden histories: slavery in Canada, the Black United Front, and the global impact of Black Loyalists Reflections on activism, education, and the ongoing fight for recognition and representation Stay Tuned: Be sure to catch Part 2, where we continue the conversation and explore even more untold stories and lessons from our guests. Credits: Hosted by Itai Kuwodza, Graham Nickerson, Laurice Downey and Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) as part of the LCCS Forum Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Notable Quotes:  No matter if you think you're poor, you have no money, if you're here, up here, free, game up. You're free.  I collected because I felt that our stories were being lost. And I always give homage to pay homage to others who collected before me, and even during me. Connect with Us: Listen, like, follow, and share the Loyalist Connections Podcast on your favorite platform Follow us on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content Thank you for joining us on this journey of discovery and connection. Stay connected, and don’t miss Part 2!

In this episode, hosts Itai Kuwodza and Shawn Smith are joined by Erin Isaac, a PhD candidate and Renewal Coordinator for the Ross-Thomson House and Store Museum in Shelburne. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of cultural preservation, community engagement, and the evolving interpretation of Loyalist and Black history in Nova Scotia. Episode Highlights: Introduction to the Ross-Thomson House and Store Museum: its history, current interpretation, and the need for more accurate and inclusive storytelling. The importance of community consultation in museum renewal projects, including the use of surveys and outreach to ensure diverse voices are heard. The complexities of interpreting sites of enslavement and the story of Catherine Edwards, a woman enslaved at the Ross-Thomson House who later escaped. The role of language, accessibility, and collaboration in public history and academic research. Decolonizing historical narratives: moving beyond traditional, white-centered perspectives to include Black, Indigenous, and other marginalized voices. The challenges of resource limitations, institutional discomfort, and the need for ongoing, community-led change. Credits: Hosted by Itai Kuwodza and Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) as part of the LCCS Forum Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Notable Quotes: “Growth happens at the edge of comfort. When we push just enough to make people a little uncomfortable, that’s where real change begins.” “Expanding the narrative, we tell doesn’t mean we’re removing other narratives. It just means we are complicating ones that have not been complicated yet.” “The only way we can do this work is by working together. There’s so much value in sharing what you’re learning, especially when it comes to community history.” Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates

In this episode, hosts Itai Kuwodza and Graham Nickerson welcome Gabriel Jones, a seasoned museum professional with over 30 years of experience in curating Indigenous arts and visual culture across Canada and beyond. Together, they explore the intersection of cultural preservation and digital innovation—discussing the complexities of digitizing cultural resources, the importance of building community capacity, and the critical role of trust and representation in heritage work. Episode Highlights: The evolving role of curators in making heritage accessible to the public The importance of digital platforms in accessing cultural resources Capacity building in communities: providing skills, tools, and confidence for digital projects The role of digital spaces as safe environments for sharing marginalized stories Building trust and meaningful relationships between heritage professionals and communities The complexities of identity, representation, and the African Nova Scotian experience Credits: Hosted by Itai Produced by Itai Kuwodza and Graham Nickerson Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) as part of the LCCS Forum Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Notable Quotes: "Digital becomes a really useful way to create content without the ridiculous expenses attached to traditional exhibitions." "The payoff is building capacity so that communities can sustain heritage projects and see their assets represented." "Digital technology is a tool—its value depends on how communities choose to use it to tell their stories." Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates  

Episode Summary:In this episode, hosts Itai Kuwodza and Shawn Smith are joined by guest Chuck Smith for a heartfelt conversation about the importance of cultural preservation within the African Nova Scotian community. They discuss the power of storytelling, the role of family traditions, music, and sports in maintaining cultural identity. The conversation also addresses the challenges and opportunities associated with passing these traditions on to future generations. Episode Highlights: The significance of sharing family stories and oral history Farming, resourcefulness, and the tradition of working the land The generational influence and evolution of Black music, and its role in shaping community identity. The Provincial Black Basketball Association and sports as a pillar of community The importance of education and integrating Black history into school curriculums The value of honoring unsung community heroes and elders Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith and Itai Kuwodza Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) as part of the LCCS Forum Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Notable Quotes: “It’s important to share those stories. Sometimes you’re not in spaces that you can share stories, so it’s important that we create these spaces.” “Music has been a big part of my life through my dad, my cousins, and my community.” “You owe it to future generations, and the ancestors, to keep this going.” Connect with Us:Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates

In this special episode of the Loyalist Connections podcast, we sit down with legendary Canadian boxer and community leader, David Downey Sr. Joined by his son, David Downey Jr., this conversation explores the rich history, personal stories, and lasting impact of the Downey family in Halifax and beyond.

In this episode, Shawn Smith and Graham Nickerson of the Loyalist Connections Creative Society partner with the South Shore Multicultural Association to host "Around the Table," a dinner series designed to foster meaningful connections within our community and highlight African Nova Scotian culinary and history.  The episode also features dinner by R&B Kitchen and a detailed discussion of the No.2 Construction Battalion's historical significance, libation rituals, and community activism against racist portrayals in the media. This session is rich with personal anecdotes, academic insights, and interactive Q&A about Black history in Nova Scotia.  00:00 Introduction and Personal Background01:00 Shawn Smith's Background and Motivation behind Loyalist Connections Creative Society 02:20 Graham Nickerson's Background and Research03:40 Challenges and Systemic Issues in Education06:18 Community Connections and Support08:41 Libation Ceremony and Its Significance18:06 Q&A Session: Black History and Education29:19 Exploring Historical Sites in Nova Scotia30:22 Mass Exodus of Black People in Nova Scotia31:26 Economic and Social Challenges37:29 Influential Black Figures in Music39:42 Bob Marley's Inspiration and Podcast Innovations40:57 No.2 Construction Battalion 51:02 Activism and Pan Africanism53:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode discusses sensitive topics and material that could be distressing or triggering for some listeners. We aim to address these subjects with respect and care, but we recognize that individual responses to such content can vary. Listener discretion is advised.

In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Laurice Downey and special host Graham Nickerson discuss Capacity Building from an Urban Perspective with special guests Rodney Small and Andre Anderson. This episode explores social entrepreneurship, and entrepreneurship in the filmmaking industry, highlighting opportunities and experiences. Rodney shares his deep connections to African Nova Scotian Communities and how his background influenced his community work and his journey of personal growth. Andre talks about his roots in Upper Hammonds Plains and Preston Township, and how reconnecting with his heritage has shaped his work in capturing African Nova Scotian stories through film. They emphasize the significance of mentorship, preserving cultural heritage, creating opportunities for youth, and the importance of genuine community engagement. The episode underscores the power of resilience, the necessity of collaboration, and the impact of meaningful community involvement in capacity building efforts.

Shawn and Laurice welcome special guest Graham Nickerson, and discuss the communities of Birchtown and Shelburne.

In this episode of the Loyalist Connections podcast, Laurice Downey and special guest hosts Graham Nickerson introduce a discussion on cultural preservation, food sovereignty, and Afrocentric learning with special guests Wendie Wilson. Wendie shares her background as an artist, writer, educator, and advocate for BIPOC educators. The conversation covers African Nova Scotian culture, traditional foods, the significance of storytelling, and the role of women in preserving history. Wendie also discusses the creation of the African Nova Scotian flag and the importance of documenting cultural heritage for future generations.

In episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Laurice Downey and special guest host Graham Nickerson, discuss the deeply rooted history of Activism and Advocacy within the African Nova Scotian community featuring special guests Dr. Isaac Saney and Irvine Carvery. The episode sheds light on their personal connections to community activism, discussing key figures such as Rocky Jones and organizations like the Black United Front. This episode also explores historical and ongoing struggles against racism, the importance of economic development, and educational initiatives. With a focus on the legacies of past leaders and the need for continued advocacy, this discussion offers a comprehensive look at the resilience and efforts of Black and African Nova Scotians in their fight for justice and equality.

In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Sean Smith and special guest host Itai Kuwodza, discuss Capacity Building from a Rural Perspective, featuring special guests Andrea Davis and Shekara Grant. Topics include the importance of understanding one's history, identity, community engagement, storytelling, and the preservation of cultural heritage. This episode highlights their personal experiences, community initiatives, and the significance of educating future generations to ensure the preservation and legacy of Black and African Nova Scotian Communities.

In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Laurice Downey and Shawn Smith explore the history of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, focusing on resilience, cultural preservation, and the impact of storytelling. Featuring key insights from special guests Douglas Rock and Chuck Smith, discussing their personal narratives, the struggle against institutional racism, and the significant contributions of the African Nova Scotian Community. The episode highlights important projects, recognition efforts, and the enduring legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion in Canadian History.  

Season 3 of the Loyalist Connections Podcast kicks-off with a focus on the Cultural Preservation and Capacity Building Forum we held in February. In this trailer Laurice and Shawn discuss the two-day event that brought together students, educators, and community members together to explore Black and African Nova Scotian Cultural Preservation and Community Capacity Building. Highlights include the involvement of historians, the interaction between elders and youth, and the importance of intentional spaces for meaningful conversations. The upcoming episodes introduce two new co-hosts and features various community leaders discussing capacity building, cultural preservation, and activism. Get ready for impactful narratives and insights that highlight the significance of Black and African Nova Scotia History as a vital part of Canadian History.

Vanessa Fells, a distinguished community voice, guides us through the multifaceted layers of systemic racism, from its roots in the transatlantic slave trade to its present-day manifestations.  Shawn and Laurice, join Vanessa in a journey that uncovers uncomfortable truths and powerful stories that resonate deeply within the Black community.  Dive into a profound exploration of anti-Black racism in Nova Scotia in our latest episode, featuring special guest Vanessa Fells. This conversation is not just an analysis but a reflection on the historical and current impacts of systemic racism on the African Nova Scotian and Black experience.  Listen now for a conversation that's essential, and a testament to the power of education and awareness in fostering change. 

Experience the essence of the Loyalist Connections in this heartwarming episode where community, ancestry, and connection come alive. Join Shawn and Laurice along with guests Beatrice and Bernice, as they weave an intricate tapestry of stories that define the spirit of Black communities.  In this episode, we delve into how storytelling is not just a pastime but a lifeline in these communities, serving as a vessel for preserving cultural heritage, fostering a strong sense of identity, and nurturing a sense of belonging. Each story shared is a thread in the rich fabric of collective wisdom, passed down through generations, binding people together in an unbreakable bond of unity and legacy.  Sit back and immerse yourself in the narratives that unfold. As we narrate these tales, you'll feel like you're among friends, gathered around a warm fire, sharing in the laughter, sorrows, and triumphs that define community life. This isn't just an episode; it's a celebration of the enduring spirit of community in marginalized communities, where storytelling is both an art and a means of survival, ensuring that their legacies are not just remembered, but lived and breathed every day.

In this compelling episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, hosts Shawn and Laurice sit down with content creator Matthew Johnson.  Matthew discusses his passion for boxing, his dedication to fitness and mental health, and the creation of ArcoVision.  

In this captivating episode, we venture beyond the surface of connections to explore the rich African Nova Scotian history in Weymouth Falls, Nova Scotia. Join Shawn and Laurice, and our special guest Juanita Peters, as they illuminate the stories woven into this small yet significant community.  Weymouth Falls is not just a place of picturesque landscapes and fertile farmland; it's a symbol of the rural Canadian experience, where agriculture, natural beauty, and tight-knit community life converge. This episode delves into how the community's past is deeply entwined with pivotal historical events like the Atlantic slave trade, the settlement of Black Loyalists, and subsequent waves of immigration.  But there's more to Weymouth Falls than just its history. It's about the people - a vibrant community bound by mutual support and care, with strong ties to the land and a profound appreciation for their heritage. Sit back and join us as we bring to light the stories of a community that not only survived but thrived through solidarity and resilience. An episode that's not just about history, but about the heart and soul of Weymouth Falls.

Join our hosts Shawn and Laurice as they welcome Curtis Whiley, who guides us through the life and soul of Upper Hammonds Plains. This episode is not just a history lesson; it's a celebration of the struggles and triumphs of African Nova Scotian residents and communities in securing their land rights, protecting their heritage, and creating a vibrant, unified community.  Discover the local history of the Whiley Box Factory, the first all Black volunteer fire department, and the resilience of this African Nova Scotian community. We’re bringing these narratives to the forefront, showcasing how this community continues to overcome numerous challenges related to land titles, water access, and systemic racism.