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Loyalist Connections Podcasts
Historic Black settlements in Nova Scotia tell a long-neglected story and through studying them we can unlock invaluable, under-represented knowledge. On a journey of rediscovery, Shawn Smith and Laurice Downey present Loyalist Connections: Est. 1783. They are determined to shed light on these lost and disappearing communities, discuss why these communities could not survive or are fading, and what the collapse of Black communities tell us about historic and modern systemic racism that Black Nova Scotians face today.
Season One
The first season of the "Loyalist Connections Podcast" delves into the rich history and experiences of Black Loyalists and their descendants in Atlantic Canada. This season explores their enduring legacy, from their initial arrival during the American Revolution to their contributions to shaping the region's cultural and social landscape. The podcast features in-depth discussions with historians, descendants, and community leaders who provide insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by these communities. It also highlights the role of the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre in preserving and promoting this important history.
Communities Covered in Season One:
- Birchtown & Shelburne, Nova Scotia
- Beechville, Nova Scotia
- Whitney Pier, Nova Scotia
- North Preston, Nova Scotia
- Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
Each episode of the season provides a unique perspective on these communities, showcasing the resilience and contributions of Black Loyalists and their descendants across the region.
From left to right, Graham Nickerson, Chuck Smith and Shawn Smith exploring.
Director's Cut of Season One
The first season of the "Loyalist Connections Podcast" has been re-released with a much stronger African Nova Scotian voice, thanks to the editorial leadership of Shawn Smith and Laurice Gabriel. After taking over the editing and production, Shawn and Laurice re-cut the episodes to ensure that the Black point of view and message were fully realized, addressing concerns that these perspectives were muted in the original editorial process. Working with Pod Starter was an invaluable experience, where they learned the ropes of podcast production. However, the re-release represents a renewed commitment to authentically amplifying the voices and stories of Black Loyalists and their descendants.
This re-release also coincides with Graham Nickerson joining the executive team, bringing further dedication to ensuring that the rich history and experiences of these communities are accurately and powerfully conveyed.
Communities Covered in Season One:
- Birchtown & Shelburne, Nova Scotia
- Beechville, Nova Scotia
- Whitney Pier, Nova Scotia
- North Preston, Nova Scotia
- Yarmouth, Nova Scotia
Each episode in this newly revitalized season offers a deeper and more authentic perspective on these communities, highlighting the resilience and significant contributions of Black Loyalists and their descendants across the region.
Shawn Smith (left) and Laurice Gabriel (right)
Loyalist Connections is a journey of rediscovery, led by hosts Shawn Smith and Laurice Downey. These two old friends want to better understand their Black Loyalist ancestors and what happened to the communities they settled. In this episode, you will get to know our hosts a little better, why they are doing this podcast, and what they hope to achieve.
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.
Join us and our special guest Dr. Barb Hamilton-Hinch as we discuss the Black settlement of Beechville. The community settled about 2000 Black refugees from the War of 1812, who arrived from Chesapeake Virginia, Bermuda, Georgia and more settled in until 1816. This episode we dive into the theft of historically Black land, given to Black communities as the scraps of their agreements with the British and then the nova Scotia government. Listen and learn as we talk about all that is lost and destroyed in white consumption of Black land.
UNIA Marching Band, Cape Breton (Crawford, Beaton Institute Archives)
Come learn about Whitney Pier with us and our special guest Bradley Sheppard. Whitney Pier was the home to several black Caribbean immigrants who came to Cape Breton in search of work for the Dominion Iron and Steel Company. This episode starts important conversations about the transportation and then planting of Black bodies to perform as surrogates in the building of communities. Additionally, if you are a fan of the late great Bob Marley there are some interesting connections made to him in this episode.
Join us and our special guest Bruce Johnson who is a current resident of Yarmouth, one of the 300 African Nova Scotians residing in the County. Bruce and our hosts dive into the historic racial environment of Yarmouth where the status of Black people started as slaves, who arrived in 1760 with the New England Planters. The status of Black people in the region further shifted with the introduction of Black Loyalists. They discuss the legacy of the unwritten rules of race-based segregation that shaped and influenced how Black people existed in Yarmouth then and today.
North Preston 1934 (Nova Scotia Archives)
Preston today. (Saint Thomas Baptist Church)
North Preston is one of the oldest and largest Indigenous Black populations whose residents are the ancestors of Black Loyalists (1783), The Jamaican Maroons (1796) and the Black Refugees from the War of 1812 who all settled in Atlantic British North America at different times. The conversation with Nevell Provo weaves the legacy of the regions past to the present as we discuss a better projection of the community's future. With Nevell's penetrating insights we walk the listener through strong pillars and structures of black families and the intersections and relationships of black communities.
The Number 2 Construction Battalion Marching Band.
Season Two
Season 2 of the Loyalist Connections Podcast explores various Black Loyalist communities' rich histories and cultural significance across the Maritime provinces. It also focuses on the contemporary issue of anti-Black racism and explores the stories of resilience, community, and the ongoing impact of Black Loyalist heritage in these regions.
Communities Covered in Season Two:
- Saint John, New Brunswick
- Greenville, Nova Scotia
- Upper Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia
- Weymouth Falls, Nova Scotia
- Africville, Nova Scotia
- Special Episode: Anti-Black Racism
In this episode, our hosts Shawn and Laurice, alongside historian Graham Nickerson, continue their journey and uncover the often-overlooked history of Saint John, New Brunswick, and deep ties to the Black Loyalist migration.
From skilled tradespeople to laborers and entrepreneurs, their work fueled the growth of Saint John's economy, leaving an indelible mark on its history. This episode aims to shift the historical lens, focusing on Black Loyalists' experiences in New Brunswick. Join us to journey into the heart of a community's resourcefulness, resilience, and enduring legacy.
Join us as we explore the realities of Greenville, Nova Scotia, through the eyes of Troy Lawrence.
In this episode, Troy shares his experience of moving to a primarily white community, shedding light on both hidden and apparent forms of racial separation. He explains how hidden segregation happens automatically, often without people realizing it, while apparent segregation is more intentional and direct.
Troy's story connects the past to the present, offering a powerful perspective that speaks to the African Nova Scotian community.
Join our hosts, Shawn and Laurice, as they welcome Curtis Whiley, who guides us through the life and soul of Upper Hammonds Plains. This episode is not just a history lesson; it's a celebration of the struggles and triumphs of African Nova Scotian residents and communities in securing their land rights, protecting their heritage, and creating a vibrant, unified community.
Discover the local history of the Whiley Box Factory, the first all-Black volunteer fire department, and the resilience of this African Nova Scotian community. We're bringing these narratives to the forefront, showcasing how this community continues to overcome numerous challenges related to land titles, water access, and systemic racism.
In this engaging episode, we explore Weymouth Falls' rich African Nova Scotian history. Join Shawn, Laurice, and special guest Juanita Peters as they share the stories that make this small community special.
Weymouth Falls is more than just beautiful landscapes and fertile farmland; it represents a unique rural Canadian experience where farming, nature, and close-knit community life come together. We'll explore how the area's history is connected to important events like the Atlantic slave trade, the arrival of Black Loyalists, and later waves of immigration.
But it's not just about history. It's about the people—a lively community that supports each other and has strong ties to the land and its heritage. Please sit back and enjoy as we highlight the stories of a community that has survived and thrived through solidarity and resilience. This episode is about the heart and soul of Weymouth Falls.
Africville commemorative stamp. (Canada Post)
Join us for a heartfelt episode of Loyalist Connections, where community, ancestry, and connection come to life. Shawn and Laurice are joined by guests Beatrice Arsenault-Byers and Bernice Wilkins as they share stories that highlight the spirit of Black communities.
This episode explores how storytelling is more than just a hobby; it's a vital part of these communities. It helps preserve culture, builds identity, and creates a sense of belonging. Each story is a shared wisdom passed down through generations, connecting people in a strong bond.
Sit back and enjoy these narratives. As we share these tales, you'll feel like you're among friends gathered around a cozy fire, sharing laughter, sorrows, and successes that shape community life. This episode celebrates the strong spirit in marginalized communities, where storytelling is both an art and a way to keep their legacies alive daily.
Black Lives Matter street art, Halifax, 2020. (CBC)
Join us for an important conversation with Vanessa Fells, a respected voice in our community, as she helps us understand the many layers of systemic racism—from its beginnings in the transatlantic slave trade to how it shows up today.
In this episode, Shawn, Laurice, and Vanessa team up to explore some tough truths and share stories that hit home for many in the Black community. We'll dive deep into the realities of anti-Black racism in Nova Scotia, looking at how it affects the lives of African Nova Scotians and the wider Black experience.
Listen for a conversation that matters, highlighting the importance of education and awareness in creating change.
Season Three
Loyalist Connections Podcast - Season 3: Exploring African Nova Scotian Heritage and Resilience
Season 3 of the Loyalist Connections Podcast delves into the rich history, cultural preservation, and ongoing resilience of African Nova Scotian communities. Hosted by Shawn Smith, Laurice Gabriel, and Graham Nickerson, this season offers powerful discussions with community leaders and advocates, exploring topics such as the legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, rural and urban capacity building, the deep roots of activism, and the significance of Afrocentric education and cultural heritage. Made in conjunction with the LCCS Community Capacity Building and Cultural Preservation Forum, held in February 2024, each episode brings to light the stories that shape the African Nova Scotian experience, honoring the past while inspiring future generations.
Chuk Smith (L) and Douglas Ruck.
In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, hosts Laurice Downey and Shawn Smith dive into the history of the No. 2 Construction Battalion, focusing on the strength, cultural pride, and power of storytelling in our community.
Special guests Douglas Rock and Chuck Smith share their personal stories, talking about their experiences with institutional racism and the powerful contributions of the African Nova Scotian community.
We also shine a light on important projects, recognition efforts, and the lasting legacy of the No. 2 Construction Battalion in Canadian history.
From left: Itai, Andrea, Shekara and Shawn.
In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, host Shawn Smith and special guest host Itai Kuwodza talk about building up our communities from a rural perspective, with special guests Andrea Davis and Shekara Grant.
They discuss the importance of knowing our history, understanding our identity, engaging with the community, sharing stories, and preserving our cultural heritage.
This episode highlights their personal journeys, community projects, and the importance of teaching the next generation to keep the legacy of Black and African Nova Scotian communities alive.
Dr. Isaac Saney (L) and Irvine Carvery.
In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Laurice Downey and guest host Graham Nickerson dive into the powerful history of activism and advocacy within the African Nova Scotian community, featuring special guests Dr. Isaac Saney and Irvine Carvery.
They discuss their ties to community activism, key figures like Rocky Jones, and organizations like the Black United Front.
The episode also looks at the ongoing fight against racism, the importance of economic growth, and educational initiatives.
By focusing on the legacies of past leaders and the need for continued advocacy, this conversation highlights the resilience and efforts of Black and African Nova Scotians in the fight for justice and equality.
In this episode of the Loyalist Connections Podcast, Laurice Downey and guest host Graham Nickerson dive into cultural preservation, food sovereignty, and Afrocentric learning with special guest Wendie Wilson.
Wendie talks about her work as an artist, writer, educator, and advocate for BIPOC educators. The conversation touches on African Nova Scotian culture, traditional foods, the importance of storytelling, and the key role women play in preserving history.
Wendie also shares the story behind the creation of the African Nova Scotian flag and why documenting our cultural heritage is so important for future generations.
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. They discuss what it means to create opportunities through social entrepreneurship and filmmaking and focus on how these industries can uplift the Black community.
Rodney shares how his deep ties to African Nova Scotian communities have shaped his path, personally and professionally. He opens up about the importance of giving back and how his growth journey has fueled his community work. Andre speaks on his roots in Upper Hammonds Plains and Preston Township, explaining how reconnecting with his heritage has driven his mission to tell African Nova Scotian stories through film.
Throughout the conversation, they highlight the importance of mentorship, preserving our cultural heritage, creating opportunities for the next generation, and keeping it real regarding community engagement. It's all about resilience, collaboration, and ensuring we're involved in the work that builds up our communities.
In this episode of the Loyalist Connections podcast, hosts Itai Kuwodza and Graham Nickerson dive deep into the powerful legacy of Black women, especially African Nova Scotian women, in driving social change. Joined by special guest Dr. Rachel Zellers, a professor in Social Justice and Community Studies, the conversation sheds light on the profound role of maternal leadership in our communities, the transformative power of Afrocentric education, and the battles Black women have fought against white supremacy. From preserving our stories as genealogists to standing on the front lines as advocates, these women have always been the heartbeat of our progress.
The episode also takes us through the roots of the African Nova Scotian Freedom School, a testament to the strength of our heritage and the need to protect Black wealth and legacy. Through historical reflections and personal stories, the discussion celebrates the enduring strength and influence of Black women in shaping both the past and the future of our communities.
Stay tuned for season 4 and more of the conference...