IONS is situated in Mi’kma’ki, the unceded and ancestral territory of the Mi’kmaw people. Unceded means that the Mi’kmaq have never relinquished, sold, traded, or transferred ownership of their land to European settler colonies, yet land was taken over without their consent through various processes of settler colonialism. This territory is covered by the Treaties of Peace and Friendship, which the Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqiyik people first signed with the British Crown in 1726. These Treaties did not involve the surrendering of rights to the lands and resources they had traditionally used and occupied. We are all Treaty People.

We further acknowledge that Nova Scotia is the birthplace of Black culture and heritage in Canada. People of African descent have shared these lands for over 400 years, and over 50 strong and resourceful African Nova Scotian communities exist here today.

We are committed to the struggle against systems of oppression that have resulted in profound inequities and the denial of self-determination rights. We are working actively to deepen our learning at an individual level, provide learning opportunities about anti-racism and decolonization, and to develop partnerships with organizations serving and led by underrepresented groups.

  • Impact Story: Leadership through Celebrating Culture & Legacy

    Meet Julien Matwawana 

    Executive Director of African Nova Scotian Music Association (ANSMA) and community changemaker, Julien Matwawana supported the design of the Black Futures Project – a community-led initiative supporting Black and Afro-Nova Scotians to imagine and build liberatory workplaces in the Community Impact Sector. Led in partnership by the African Nova Scotian Decade for People of African Descent (ANSDPAD) and IONS, the Black Futures Project centered community voice, art and creativity, intergenerational leadership, and bold imagination to transform how Black people are seen, supported, and celebrated across Nova Scotia.

    At ANSMA, Julien’s leadership is supporting Black artists and musical talent on a regional and international scale. With deep roots in the province and a rich African Nova Scotian history, developing and promoting local musicians is an important way to preserve and celebrate culture and legacy. Julien was one of the co-designers of the Black Futures project and attendees at the Black to the Future retreat in the fall of 2025. Through gatherings, storytelling, and learning sessions, the project helped deepen awareness of systemic barriers and supported organizations in creating policies rooted in justice, belonging, and cultural relevance. His forward thinking and commitment to community helped shape meaningful conversations and impact throughout the project.

    What does Black Futures mean to you?

    Black Future means to me that we build and own more things versus waiting for someone to give us something or continue as mostly consumers. One practice I do as an Afro-futurist is to help Black people develop professionally and get out of their comfort zone.

    One practice I do as an Afro-futurist is to help Black people develop professionally and get out of their comfort zone.

    Julien Matwawana

    How has your work had impact on your community? there a story of impact you can share?

    ANSMA’s Music Mastery Mentorship is an amazing program that has been running for two years. It’s a six-week program where aspiring artists and industry professionals are matched up with a mentor actively working in the music industry across North America. This has allowed our membership to get firsthand knowledge from people currently doing what they aspire to do. 

    What is your favorite book on Afrofuturism or Black literature, or a piece of Black media that inspires you?

    A book that I think all Black people in North America and beyond should read is “The Miseducation of the Negro”. 

    What is your wildest dream for Black Futures in Nova Scotia?

    I would love to see Black families being directed by faith and everyone working together harmoniously in every industry that moves the needle. I want to see more conglomerates being created where Black people can build things together with our community in mind. I want more generational wealth and security for our Black children in Nova Scotia.