It’s African Heritage/History Month: February is African Heritage Month:  Every year, for the month of February, Canadians are invited to participate in Black History / African Heritage Month festivities and events that honour the legacy of Canadians of African and Caribbean descent, past and present.  Canadians take this time to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today. During African Heritage Month (as it is called in Nova Scotia), Canadians can gain insight into the experiences of black Canadians and their vital role in the community.  The 2022 African Heritage Month theme, Through Our Eyes: The Voices of African Nova Scotians, recognizes the legacies of people of African descent through first voice, lived realities, and experiences.  The theme highlights that when we listen to others’ perspectives, interpretation, and views on the world, particularly those from marginalized communities, we will gain a more meaningful understanding on how to make our world a better place.  Nova Scotia has more than 50 historic African Nova Scotian communities with a long, deep, and complex history dating back over 400 years. African Heritage Month provides another opportunity to celebrate and promote the culture, legacy, achievements, and contributions of people of African descent in Nova Scotia – past and present.   Canadians recognize contributions and moments from early settlement, the abolition of slavery, the Underground Railroad, icons such as Viola Desmond, and notable black Canadians in all fields (including education, healthcare, inventions, science, academics, law and justice, civil and human rights, sports, entertainment, art, literature, politics, the military) who have played defining roles in Canada’s history.  Lots will be happening at our school and in our classrooms this month, and beyond, to honour and celebrate Canadians of African descent.  Our students (in grades primary to 9) will learn and discover  much about African Nova Scotian/Canadian contributions to the rich diversity of our province, country, and world.