The Loyalist Connections Podcast

Black Women's Agency - Connections to Resilience

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.

Capacity Building - Connections to the Urban Perspective

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.

Birchtown & Shelburne - Connections to the Port [Director’s Cut]

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.

Cultural Preservation - Connections to Food Sovereignty

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.

Community Activism & Advocacy - Connections to Resistance

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.

Capacity Building - Connections to the Rural Perspective

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.

No. 2 Construction Battalion - Connections to Canadian History

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 - Trailer

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.

Special Episode - Anti-Black Racism

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. 

Africville - Connections to Urban Renewal

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.