Building Pride In African Heritage

The Society for the Protection and Preservation of Black Culture in Nova Scotia (better know as the Black Cultural Society) was incorporated as a charitable organization in 1977. The Society consists of 26 Board of Directors, representing various black communities in Nova Scotia and one representative of African United Baptist Association.

The genesis of the Black Cultural Centre lay in a proposal put forward in 1972 by Reverend Dr. William Pearly Oliver for the creation of a Cultural Educational Centre to meet the needs and aspirations of the Black Communities of Nova Scotia.

The sod turning ceremony took place on April 24, 1982, seventeen months later the Centre was officially opened on September 17, 1983. Many events have taken place at the Centre, such as cultural portrayals in the form of music, plays, concerts, as well as educational activities in the form of workshops, lectures and guided tours. Programs of the Black Cultural Centre extend beyond it doors to the broader community of Nova Scotia. This outreach is achieved through cultural events across Nova Scotia.

Funding/Fund-Raising

The Society gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Federal Department of Canadian Heritage and the Provincial Department of Education and Culture. The Society is also funded through Foundations, and Donations from individuals, organizations, the Corporate and Private Sectors. On going Fund-raising is constant.

The Black Cultural Centre for N.S. is located on a three acre lot and is a large two story wood/brick building on the corner of Cherry Brook Road and Main Street, just outside of Dartmouth. Easily accessible by car of public transit.

The Centre houses a museum section, an auditorium, gift shop, RCMP Community Office, and a reference library. A colorful array of exhibitions, publications and souvenirs await you. Come to Nova Scotia and visit Atlantic Canada’s 1^st and only Black Cultural Centre. Discover the remarkable history of rich African Heritage we have to share!

Membership of the Black Cultural Society is opened to all people. Membership privileges include a membership card, quarterly newsletter ("The Preserver"), notices of upcoming events and activities, voting at the Annual General Meeting of the Black Cultural Society, free admission to the Black Cultural Centre and discounts to events.

Donors to the Society receive and official tax receipt and your name will be published in our Newsletter. Your donation will help us in our ongoing feat to Protect, Preserve and Promote Black Culture and Heritage in Nova Scotia.

Thousands of people including tourists, students, dignitaries etc. come to visit year round. They originate from around the world.

As an educational institution the largest clientele is school tour groups. Children and young adults enjoy the experience of learning about African-Canadian Heritage in a user-friendly and inviting atmosphere.

Guided tours or unaccompanied, it your choice. We have something to offer to everyone. Take some time to have a good time celebrating the Black Culture of Nova Scotia.

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