BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIAN AFFAIRS (ANSA)
Historical Context
The desire to create a ministerial portfolio and this Office is the result of two specific developments. The first was government's response to a document entitled Final Report on Consultations with the African Nova Scotian Community 2001, by Dr. Wanda Thomas-Bernard and Dr. Fred Wein. The second was to acknowledge the long-standing reality that the pressing needs and issues of importance to African Nova Scotians have not been fully addressed or resolved.
According to Statistic Canada Survey, there are more than 20,000 African Nova Scotians in the province. Of this number, a majority are younger than age 64 and at least 25 per cent are 14 years or younger. However, it is unclear if the census data reflects our definition of "African Nova Scotian," which includes all individuals from first migrants to this province (Matthew Da Costa circa 1604) to recent newcomers from the African Diaspora.
There are said to be more than 48 African Nova Scotian communities in Nova Scotia. The diversity in these communities can be found in many aspects (e.g., urban, rural, community population, access to resources). Over the last four decades the population base of these communities has suffered from out-migration to larger communities, to metro Halifax, or to locations outside Nova Scotia. There is also a higher unemployment rate for African Nova Scotians when compared to the general population figures.
Previous documents dating back to the early African Nova Scotian settlers identified numerous concerns raised by African Nova Scotians to government. Past and present issues such as housing, employment, education, community development, and access to resources have not been adequately addressed for Nova Scotians of African descent. It is against this backdrop that the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs was developed.
Creation of ANSA
The creation of the Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs (ANSA) demonstrates government's commitment to the well-being of African Nova Scotians. This commitment begins to address the need for culturally competent services and initiatives that effectively meet the unique needs of African Nova Scotian communities.
The Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs acts as a broker to other government agencies and to the community. The Office also serves as an advocate for cross-cultural understanding and a conduit to assist Nova Scotians of African descent in reaching their full potential. ANSA builds on government and community successes to promote and facilitate positive change on behalf of Nova Scotians of African descent.
Equally important is for ANSA to have an effective communication with its community and government partners. The Office works with departments, agencies, divisions, and organizations to develop mutual strategies, goals, and practical communication solutions.
In addition to reviewing and providing input on proposed legislation and regulations, works to
strengthen the delivery of services to African Nova Scotians;
provides information sessions and updates for all government departments, agencies, boards, and commissions regarding the Office structure, mandate, vision, partnerships, etc.;
participates in community information activities and workshops.
Our Mission & Mandate
Assist, support, and enhance the provincial government's delivery of services to African Nova Scotians and be a partner in developing innovative solutions that lead to self reliance and sustainable development for African Nova Scotians and their communities.
To create and promote an integrated approach within government on matters related to the African Nova Scotian communities in the province.
To represent the interests of the province in intergovernmental initiatives and negotiations on matters integral to the interests of African Nova Scotians.
To provide research analysis and policy advice on African Nova Scotian issues.
To develop communication strategies and public education to increase understanding within the province of African Nova Scotian culture, heritage, and community issues.
BETTER TOGETHER
OFFICE OF AFRICAN NOVA SCOTIAN AFFAIRS (ANSA)
Issues, Concerns/Past &Present
Education
Employment
Political Empowerment
Historical / Cultural Validation
Community/Family Cohesion/Church Survival
Contemporary Provincial Leadership
Creation of the Office…what it does for Community
Gives voice to issues and concerns
Gives ‘space’ for new ways of thinking
Gives respect and validation to ANS concerns/struggles
Opens dialogue with government & Community
Creation of the Office …what it does for Government
Assist, support and enhance the provincial government’s delivery of services to African Nova Scotians and be a partner in developing innovative solutions which lead to self reliance and sustainable development for African Nova Scotians and their communities (also our Mission)
Better Together:
Tools & Strategies ANSA utilizes:
ANS Community Actions Partnerships ( ANSCAPS)
Conduit to Government viz a viz Round Tables
Creation of ANS Service Providers Networks
ANSA Presentations to provincial government departments
Information sessions by government to ANS communities
Support capacity building, organizational and community development ( training, facilitation, strategic analysis)