Black History Month offers a wealth of heritage and traditions

February is Black History Month and Crystal States hopes to see all of Pictou County take part.
"I personally would like to see everyone come out and celebrate my rich heritage, culture and traditions," said States, the African History Month Information Network representative.
Black History Month - or African Heritage Month, as it is alternatively known as - has been celebrated in Nova Scotia for 26 years.
"African Heritage month is important to the African Nova Scotian community of New Glasgow as it is a time of reflection on the past," States said.
The idea to make a time of remembrance was the brainchild of historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Since then it has become a month-long celebration in both the U.S. and Canada.
It's hard to consider the future without knowing the past, States said and that's what makes this month so important.
It's a time "to be reminded of the wonderful contributions made by a race of people," she said.
"Not knowing their great heritage and past may cause some people young and old to lack pride and faith in them and in their community."
Whether it is learning about the discovery of Lucy (the 1973 landmark fossil find in Ethiopia), the pyramids in Egypt, African kings and queens, or great African leaders, American and Canadian, it's important for our community to know and share the many contributions made to this country by people of African descent, States said.
"I feel it is important that we as community leaders, educators, parents, school teachers encourage children of all cultures and race to learn about the rich and wonderful history of African Nova Scotians, and Africans living in the Diaspora."
To that end there will be plenty of activities going on this month to help people learn more she said.
Today will be the African Heritage Month Launch and poster unveiling being held in town chambers.
This evening the New Glasgow Black Education Committee (BEC) will host a Cafe' Noir movie night at NNEC.
States encourages everyone to come out, share a cup of coffee and dessert over a movie.
Second United Baptist Church will host a Heritage Night on Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. Also, Irvine Carvery will speak at NSCC-Pictou Campus sometime throughout the month which is open to students and community and the New Glasgow BEC will host another Cafe' Noir on Feb. 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Second United Baptist Church with poetry, readings and music.