Online resource will help counter the invisibility of Black history in the dominant narrative of Canadian history.
National Union of Public and General Employees
http://www.nupge.ca/news_2008/n07fe08a.htm
Ottawa (7 Feb. 2008) - In time for Black History Month the Library and Archives Canada has launched Under a Northern Star, an online web resource which promises to be an important tool for researchers, students, activists and all Canadians.
The website is intended to "document the diverse historical experience of African Canadians. The collections include historical papers that contextualize the life and work of persons who fought against slavery and racism, built settlements, and flourished as early Canadians."
In her introductory essay award-winning poet, author, historian, curator, performer, cultural worker, and recording artist Dr. Afua Cooper thinks that:
"What is brilliant about these collections is that each one speaks to the historical experience of African Canadians in different parts of the country at different time periods. Moreover, each one tells a story of the important contributions Blacks made to Canada as pioneers, enslaved persons, explorers, citizens and settlers. Of great import is that these collections lay to rest the myth of Black people just 'came off the boat,' but reveal that they were a part of what became known as Canada from its very inception. The collections reveal the multi-layered history of Black Canadians, and explore, in depth, Black people's vast achievements and their contributions to Canadian society."
The site provides access to digitalized collections on the themes of: Reverend William King - The Elgin Settlement; Mary Ann Shadd Cary - Abolitionist; Sir James Douglas - Colonial Governor; Green Thurman - Runaway Slave; Black Loyalists - Nova Scotia; Africville - A Community Displaced; and, Railway - Black Porters. Each collection comes with a short essay by a recognized authority on the topic.
Dr. Cooper sees the online collection playing a valuable role in countering "the invisibility of Black history in the dominant narrative of Canadian history. These digitized collections will ensure this can happen no more." NUPGE
