Around the Table

An African Nova Scotian Culinary Event 

Join Shawn Smith and Graham Nickerson of the Loyalist Connections Creative Society for a unique celebration of African Nova Scotian culture, history, and cuisine, recorded live before an engaged audience. Presented in partnership with the South Shore Multicultural Association, this special installment of the Around the Table dinner series invites participants to explore the rich tapestry of Black foodways while engaging with stories of resilience, community, and heritage.

This vibrant evening featured a soul-satisfying meal by R&B Kitchen, paired with lively discussions about the No. 2 Construction Battalion's pivotal role in Black history, the significance of libation rituals, and the ongoing fight against systemic racism and harmful media portrayals. The event blended personal anecdotes, historical insights, and academic reflections with a Q&A session that connected the audience directly to the history of Black Nova Scotians.

Podcast Show Notes

In this episode of Around the Table, Shawn Smith and Graham Nickerson share the vision behind the Loyalist Connections Creative Society while spotlighting African Nova Scotian cuisine and history. Highlights include:

• The historical importance of the No. 2 Construction Battalion.
• Cultural practices like the libation ritual and their modern relevance.
• Discussions on systemic racism, community activism, and Pan-Africanism.
• Personal stories of connection to Black Nova Scotia and the challenges of preserving its heritage.

Packed with humor, passion, and audience interaction, this episode celebrates the enduring legacy of African Nova Scotian culture while inspiring new ways to build bridges within the broader community.