Dr. Afua Cooper honoured with the Order of Nova Scotia

Dr. Afua Cooper is a recipient of the Order of Nova Scotia, the province’s highest honour, recognizing individuals for their outstanding contributions and achievements.

This prestigious award reflects Dr. Cooper’s profound impact on Nova Scotia’s literary, cultural, and academic landscape.

Dr. Cooper is a distinguished author, historian, academic, and former Halifax Poet Laureate. For over twenty-five years, she has dedicated herself to researching, teaching, and elevating the study of Black Canadian history and culture.

Her pioneering work has been instrumental in establishing Black Canadian Studies as a critical academic discipline, expanding upon the contributions of earlier scholars and bringing this important subject to the forefront of national discourse.

Through literature, performance, education, and human rights advocacy, Dr. Cooper has redefined historical narratives and shed new light on the experiences of African peoples, who have long been underrepresented in academia and public memory.

Her scholarship, deeply rooted in her Jamaican heritage, combines historical inquiry with artistic expression, notably through the medium of dub poetry. Her unwavering commitment to truth, education, and cultural preservation exemplifies the highest standards of intellectual and creative integrity.

The Halifax Muslim community congratulated Dr. Cooper, "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Cooper and pray for continued success in her invaluable contributions."