The Loyalist Connections Podcast

In the final episode, which grounds Dr. Clement Ligoure’s history in community memory, Shawn speaks with Hal Davidson of Amherst, Nova Scotia, a town councilor, former deputy mayor, and community historian. Hal shares knowledge of the African Nova Scotian community's history, particularly the Number Two Construction Battalion and its legacy. He discusses his personal connection to this history through his great uncle, who served in the battalion and later became a pastor. The conversation considers the structural racism faced by Black people in the military and the significance of recognizing and preserving this history. Key Topics Hal’s personal connection to the No.2 Construction Battalion. The role of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church in the recruitment of the No. 2 Construction Battalion. Institutional racism faced by Black soldiers during World War 1 and the significance of recognizing and protecting this history. Community memory and recognition of the No.2 Construction Battalion. Building solidarity among African Nova Scotians is essential to protecting history. Credits Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Hal Davidson Connect With Us Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! Resources https://novamuse.ca/EducationalResources/Index View the video podcast here: Episode three (feat. Hal Davidson): https://youtu.be/M_uCBGrqDAU For reference information, check out the Dr. Ligoure story on NovaMuse.ca

This second episode revisits Dr. Clement Ligoure in Nova Scotia. It examines why, despite being qualified and recommended, he was denied appointment as Medical Officer for the No. 2 Construction Battalion during the First World War. Shawn interviews Mary Beth Sutherland, community advocate and granddaughter of Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Hugh Sutherland, the battalion’s commanding officer, who pushed for Black officers, including a chaplain (Rev. Andrew White) and Dr. Ligoure. Key Topics Clement Ligoure’s journey: recruitment, qualifications and racial discrimination encountered within the military. The leadership and advocacy efforts of Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Hugh Sutherland. The significance of the No.2 Construction Battalion. The role of print media and Black publications during World War 1. The role of the No.2 Construction band during World War 1. Credits Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Mary Beth Sutherland Connect With Us Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! Learning Resources: https://novamuse.ca/EducationalResources/Index View the video podcast here: Episode two (feat. Mary Beth Sutherland): https://youtu.be/wYCn6tL9vOs For reference information, check out the Dr. Ligoure story on NovaMuse.ca  

Host Shawn Smith launches a three-part series on Dr. Clement Courtney Ligoure, tracing his path from Trinidad to the United States, medical training in Ontario, and his 1916 arrival in Halifax. With historian Graham Nickerson, the episode situates Ligoure's story inside broader Black migration, Caribbean economic change after emancipation, and the racism and policies which shaped opportunity, including Canada’s early 1900s restrictions on Black immigration. Key Topics Clement Ligoure's early life in Trinidad Migration movements of Black communities from the Caribbean to North America The role of community networks and institutions in Black history The impact of systematic racism and legislation on Black medical professionals The significance of the Halifax explosion and Black community resilience Launch of the Atlantic Advocate and recruitment for the No.2 Construction Battalion Credits Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Graham Nickerson Connect With Us Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms. Learning Resources: https://novamuse.ca/EducationalResources/Index View the video podcast here: Episode one (feat. Graham Nickerson): https://youtu.be/AwkX-7541zc  For reference information, check out the Dr. Ligoure story on NovaMuse.ca

Picking up the conversation, episode two continues studying the intersections of land, history, and racial justice. Lyndsey discusses how historic sites and land can serve as meaningful tools for education and activism, addressing white supremacy, colonialism, and the centrality of land in Black history and liberation movements. The conversation emphasizes mapping Black presence beyond single museums, solidarity with Indigenous peoples, and how Canadian multiculturalism may obscure ongoing racism, reconciliation, and reparations.   Key topics Land and historical sites as tools for education and activism The role of museums and land in shaping racial narratives White supremacy, colonialism, and land inheritance The importance of land in Black history and liberation movements Strategies for using land and history to build political consciousness Credits Hosted by Shawn Smith and Graham Nickerson Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Lyndsey Beutin Connect With Us Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms Resources Black Loyalist Heritage Centre Trafficking in Antiblackness: Modern-Day Slavery, White Indemnity, and Racial Justice    

Summary Recorded after the inaugural 2023 BLACK conference, Shawn and Graham reconnect with Lyndsey Beutin as part of this two-part series reflecting on how to build spaces to discuss the legacy of anti-Black racism, media, and liberation. Lyndsey, a scholar of media studies and African diaspora studies, explains her research on the racial politics of communication and anti-trafficking campaigns. The conversation shifts through historical examples of anti-black racism in the media, and addresses Canada’s branding, missionary/humanitarian harms, marketing tropes and DEI backlash. Key Topics Trafficking in Anti-Blackness Framework Historical Context & Data Visual Culture & Media Representation White Fragility & Solidarity Allyship vs. Accompliceship Credits Hosted by Shawn Smith and Graham Nickerson Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Lyndsey Beutin Connect With Us Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms Resources Black Loyalist Heritage Centre Trafficking in Antiblackness: Modern-Day Slavery, White Indemnity, and Racial Justise

Our final episode brings us to Cherrybrook, Nova Scotia, where I sit down with Debbie Vaillancourt-Higgins, owner of Opus Café and Catering. Debbie shares the significance of Opus Café, her family's deep ties to the African Nova Scotian community, and how those roots continue to guide her entrepreneurial journey. Together, we unlock generational wisdom and explore how food, love, and storytelling can transform a dining experience into a true community hub—a place to gather, reflect, and heal. Key Topics: Inspiration behind Opus Café & Catering Community Connections and Roots Transforming a Historic Space Emotional Stories and Healing Family Influence and Entrepreneurial Spirit Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Chef Debbie Vaillancourt-Higgins Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! For more information on Opus Café and Catering: https://www.theopuscafe.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Opus-Cafe-Catering-100088422846944/ https://www.instagram.com/theopuscafe/?hl=en  

This episode of the African Nova Scotian Culinary series highlights the story of Chef Donna Gogan, owner of Portlander Jamaican Restaurant in Amherst, Nova Scotia. Donna shares her journey from Jamaica to Nova Scotia, bringing the bold flavours of her heritage to the Maritimes, and discusses the importance of community support, the challenges of sourcing ingredients, and the labour of love involved in preparing delicious food. The episode offers insights into how Donna's creative twists on traditional dishes have won over locals. It explores the significance of entrepreneurship and cultural cuisine in fostering community connections. Key Topics: Donna Gogan's Jamaican Roots The Beauty of Port Antonio Journey to Nova Scotia Challenges and Ingredients Community Support in Amherst Future plans and advice for aspiring restaurateurs Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Chef Donna Gogan and Executive Producer Matthew Johnson Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! For more information on Portlander Jamaican Restaurant: https://www.facebook.com/Portlanderjamaicanrestaurantnovascotia/ https://portlanderjamaicanrestaurantns.com/ https://www.instagram.com/portlander.jamaican_resturant/

Chef Leon Hamilton joins Shawn Smith to discuss his journey in the culinary arts, rooted in African Nova Scotian traditions and innovation. Chef Leon shares stories about his inspirations, including mentors in his community, and his approach to comfort food, emphasizing complete, satisfying, and accessible meals. The conversation covers his experiences teaching youth through programs like the Fruits of Our Labour, his journey to becoming a Red Seal certified cook, and the impact of culinary arts on preserving cultural heritage. Key Topics: Chef Leon's culinary journey Community and Culinary Arts Becoming a Red Seal Chef Comfort food vs. fine dining Empowering youth through culinary skills Future plans and advice for aspiring chefs Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Chef Leon Hamilton and Executive Producer Matthew Johnson  Key Topics: Chef Leon's culinary journey Community and Culinary Arts Becoming a Red Seal Chef Comfort food vs. fine dining Empowering youth through culinary skills Future plans and advice for aspiring chefs Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! For more information on Chef Leon Hamilton: https://www.instagram.com/cheffleon/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXrNSjDcjYQ

This episode of the African Nova Scotian Culinary series, host Shawn Smith visits 'Honey Bees' in Yarmouth, a transformative cultural food hub transformed by Chef Sonia Park and Troy Lawrence. The episode explores the unique fusion of Korean, Japanese, and Thai flavours that define Honey Bees' offerings, as well as the couple's journey from Toronto back to their small-town roots. Troy discusses the importance of community involvement, respect for diverse cultures in the kitchen, and practical strategies for maintaining a successful multicultural team. The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion about mentorship, community loyalty, and entrepreneurial advice. Key Topics: The Journey Back to Yarmouth Building a Multicultural Team Navigating Challenges and COVID-19 Future Plans and Expansion Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Chef Sonia Park and Troy Lawerence, and Executive Producer Matthew Johnson Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! For more information on Honey Bees: https://www.honeybeesorders.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/honeybeesyarmouth/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/honeybeesyarmouth/

In the opening episode of the African Nova Scotian Culinary series, Shawn Smith sits down with Chef Pamela Alexander Leonforde, the passionate founder of Café Caye Mange in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Chef Pamela shares her inspiring journey from St. Lucia to Nova Scotia, the cultural significance behind her restaurant's name, and her commitment to intertwining her heritage into every dish. She reflects on the community support that helped her establish Café Caye Mange, her dedication to plant-based healing foods, and the importance of holistic health. This conversation unfolds Chef Pamela's global culinary experiences and her mission to educate and inspire through food. Key Topics: The inspiration and motivation behind the Café Caye Mange Global culinary experiences and influences Community Support and Overcoming Challenges Changing Perceptions of Plant-Based Food Healthy Eating and Cultural Shifts Credits: Hosted by Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society (LCCS) Special thanks to Chef Pamela and Executive Producer Matthew Johnson Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram @LoyalistConnectionPodcast for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Listen, like, follow, and share on your favourite platforms! For more information on Café Caye Mange: https://www.instagram.com/cafecayemange/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/p/Caf%C3%A9-Caye-Mang%C3%A9-61550916578395/  

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. Episode Highlights: David Downey Sr. shares memories of growing up in Halifax, his early days in sports, and the journey to becoming a Canadian middleweight boxing champion. Reflections on family, community, and the importance of mentorship in sports and life. Stories of overcoming adversity, building bridges across communities, and the legacy of the “Fighting Downies.” Additional commentary and insights from David Downey Jr., offering a multi-generational perspective on family, heritage, and the power of storytelling. Special moments, including encounters with sports legends and the significance of being inducted into the Nova Scotia and Canadian Sports Halls of Fame. Credits: Hosted by Laurice Gabriel Downey and Shawn Smith Produced by Loyalist Connections Creative Society Special thanks to the Black Cultural Center, Black Loyalist Heritage Center, and St. Mary’s University for their support Connect with Us: Follow the Loyalist Connections Podcast on Instagram: @LoyalistConnectionPodcast Listen, like, and share on your favorite podcast platforms

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 Background 01:00 Shawn Smith's Background and Motivation behind Loyalist Connections Creative Society  02:20 Graham Nickerson's Background and Research 03:40 Challenges and Systemic Issues in Education 06:18 Community Connections and Support 08:41 Libation Ceremony and Its Significance 18:06 Q&A Session: Black History and Education 29:19 Exploring Historical Sites in Nova Scotia 30:22 Mass Exodus of Black People in Nova Scotia 31:26 Economic and Social Challenges 37:29 Influential Black Figures in Music 39:42 Bob Marley's Inspiration and Podcast Innovations 40:57 No.2 Construction Battalion  51:02 Activism and Pan Africanism 53:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Loyalist Connections podcast, hosts Itai Kuwodza and Graham Nickerson discuss the significant influence and contributions of Black Women, particularly African Nova Scotian Women, in instigating social change with special guest Dr. Rachel Zellers, a professor in Social Justice and Community Studies, the discussion covers topics such as the maternal influence in activism, the impact of Afrocentric learning, the historical challenges of white supremacy, and the vital role Black Women have played as genealogists, storytellers, Advocates for change. The episode also highlights the African Nova Scotian Freedom School’s origins and evolution, reflecting on the importance of Black Wealth and Heritage Preservation. By examining historical cases and personal experiences, the conversation underscores the continued relevance and resilience of Black Women's Agency in shaping both past and present Societies.

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.

We're starting where it all began! In this episode our hosts and their special guest Graham Nickerson discuss some of the key cultural traditions, practices and connections between the Black Loyalists that settled in Birchtown and Shelburne. These communities were made of Black people across the region who represented different cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds that they transported on to their new homes. Our guest speaker passionately speaks to the resilience of once enslaved people who gained their freedom after fighting for the British.

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.   

In this special episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, hosts Shawn and Laurice sit down with artist Duane Jones.  Duane shares his journey of coming to Nova Scotia, the founding of his business, Art Pays Me, and the challenges of entrepreneurship in the art industry. 

Join us as we explore the contrasting realities of Greenville, Nova Scotia, through the eyes of Troy Lawrence. This episode highlights the lived experience of moving to a predominantly white community, unraveling the layers of both subconscious and conscious racial segregation. Troy explains how subconscious segregation manifests as an automatic, often unnoticed division along racial lines, while conscious segregation is a more overt and intentional act.  Troy's heartfelt narrative weaves historical threads into our contemporary fabric, offering a powerful perspective that is both enlightening and deeply moving.

In this episode, our hosts Shawn and Laurice, alongside historian Graham Nickerson, continue their journey and uncover the often-overlooked history of Saint John, New Brunswick and deep ties to the Black Loyalist migration.    From skilled tradespeople to labourers and entrepreneurs, their work fuelled the growth of Saint John's economy, leaving an indelible mark on its history. This episode aims to shift the historical lens, bringing into focus the experiences of Black Loyalists in New Brunswick.  Join us for a journey into the heart of a community's resourcefulness, resilience, and enduring legacy. 

North Preston is one of the oldest and largest Indigenous Black populations whose residents are the ancestors of Black Loyalists (1783), The Jamaican Maroons (1796) and the Black Refugees from the War of 1812 who all settled in Atlantic British North America at different times. The conversation with Nevell Provo weaves the legacy of the regions past to the present as we discuss a better projection of the community’s future. With Nevell’s penetrating insights we walk the listener through strong pillars and structures of black families and the intersections and relationships of black communities. 

Join us and our special guest Bruce Johnson who is a current resident of Yarmouth, one of the 300 African Nova Scotians residing in the County. Bruce and our hosts dive into the historic racial environment of Yarmouth where the status of Black people started as slaves, who arrived in 1760 with the New England Planters. The status of Black people in the region further shifted with the introduction of Black Loyalists. They discuss the legacy of the unwritten rules of race-based segregation that shaped and influenced how Black people existed in Yarmouth then and today.

Come learn about Whitney Pier with us and our special guest Bradley Sheppard. Whitney Pier was the home to several black Caribbean immigrants who came to Cape Breton in search of work for the Dominion Iron and Steel Company. This episode starts important conversations about the transportation and then planting of Black bodies to perform as surrogates in the building of communities. Additionally, if you are a fan of the late great Bob Marley there are some interesting connections made to him in this episode.

Join us and our special guest Dr. Barb Hamilton-Hinch as we discuss the Black settlement of Beechville. The community settled about 2000 Black refugees from the War of 1812, who arrived from Chesapeake Virginia, Bermuda, Georgia and more settled in until 1816. This episode we dive into the theft of historically Black land, given to Black communities as the scraps of their agreements with the British and then the nova Scotia government. Listen and learn as we talk about all that is lost and destroyed in white consumption of Black land.

Loyalist Connections is a journey of rediscovery, led by hosts Shawn Smith and Laurice Downey. These two old friends want to better understand their Black Loyalist ancestors and what happened to the communities they settled. In this episode, you will get to know our hosts a little better, why they are doing this podcast, and what they hope to achieve.