Multicultural Learning Resources
To effectively support and include employees from different backgrounds, it is helpful to understand the histories and life experiences of different groups of people. This may come from conversations with individuals, but asking about personal experiences that have been hard or hurtful isn't ideal. Taking time to learn more about the experiences and challenges someone might have because of the group to which they belong is a good way to increase awareness without increasing the burden on the individual. To help, we're compiling introductory resources. If you want to learn more, contact our Human Resources Advisory at HRadvisor@nsboats.com.
Topics
The following topics are currently included in our resource library. Each section also includes information about events and activities. Click to jump to the topic of your choice. More topics will be added over time.
African Heritage Month (NS) / Black History Month (Can) - February (annual)
Black History Month was first formally celebrated in Nova Scotia in 1985 and was officially declared at the provincial level in 1996 with the new name of African Heritage Month to promote this history, culture, and accomplishments of Africans worldwide. It was recognized in the Canadian House of Commons in 1995 and in 2008, the Senate declared February as Black History Month.
A list of 2024 activities and learning resources are below.
Activities and Actions:
Learning Resources:
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African Heritage History - African Nova Scotian Affairs (Government of Nova Scotia)
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International Decade for people of African descent (2015-2024) - United Nations
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Learning resources for all age groups - Halifax Public Libraries
Mental Health Supports for Black People:
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation / Orange Shirt Day - September 30 (annual)
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation remembers those who endured Canada's residential school systems. This includes both survivors and those who never returned home. The NSBA recognizes the experience of survivors and honours the memory of those who didn't survive.
You can participate in activities at home or in person. A list of 2023 activities and learning resources are below.
Activities and Actions:
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Truth and Reconciliation Commission - Truth and Reconciliation Week Sept. 25-30, 2023
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Wear an orange shirt. Here are a few places where you can buy them:
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National Day for Truth & Reconciliation: Special Film Screening (Halifax, Sept 29, 7:00-9:00 pm)
Learning Resources:
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Assembly of First Nations Education Toolkit - Residential Schools
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CBC article: "National Day for Truth and Reconciliation should be a solemn day to reflect, says author"
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CBC article: "48 books by indigenous writers to read to understand residential schools"
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Orange Shirt Society - information about the significance of Orange Shirt Day and more
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Human Resources Professionals Association - National Day for Truth & Reconciliation Self-Guided Learning
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Decolonization Learning Journey - Impact Organizations of NS
Mental Health Supports for Indigenous People:
Treaty Day - October 1 (NS, annual)
Treaty Day, observed each year on October 1st, inaugurates Mi'kmaq History Month in Nova Scotia. This significant event was officially declared in 1993 by Premier John Savage and Mi'kmaq Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy. The primary aim of Treaty Day is to enhance public understanding and appreciation of Mi'kmaw culture and heritage among all residents of Nova Scotia.
You can participate in activities at home or in person. A list of 2023 activities and learning resources are below.
Activities and Actions:
Learning Resources:
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Union of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq - Celebrating Treaty Day
For a list of all upcoming events and cultural days, visit our Events page.