Delays in the Lionel Desmond enquiry are unacceptable and cruel. “Sources close to this writer state that these delays are largely due to a number of lawyers demanding more money per hour while the Desmond and Borden families are made to wait, thus adding more trauma and pain and suffering,” writes Raymond Sheppard..
In 2017, Lionel Desmond, a young African Nova Scotian,shot and killed his mother, his wife, and their 10-year-old daughter. During his service in the Canadian Armed Forces Desmond, who after two stints in Afghanistan suffered from PTSD, faced consistent anti-Black racism. This racism has been a contributing factor to his PTSD, writes Raymond Sheppard.
Raymond Sheppard on the rich history of survival and mutual aid that marked life in African Nova Scotian communities through the ages.
“As an African Nova Scotian, there are many, many things I know little or nothing about, but I do know a little something about poverty and its many effects,” writes Raymond Sheppard.
“As a proud conscious African Nova Scotian, I honestly and truly believe we have a need and responsibility to recognize and appreciate one another,” writes Raymond Sheppard.
Raymond Sheppard: Sisters and brothers of African descent, your struggle has been long and difficult and some of you have are no longer active participants in this struggle. To you I say, it is time to come “Black Home”.
Raymond Sheppard: “As soon as a white individual says something right and thoughtful about African Nova Scotians then they often feel they must receive this proverbial pass which magically makes them non-racist. What’s more, this pass must come with a lifetime warranty.”
Raymond Sheppard explains why he is organizing a community meeting about the lack of mental health care in North End Halifax in August.
Raymond Sheppard: “The education system in Nova Scotia continues to fail African Nova Scotian learners. There is very little in this system that reflects our history, perseverance, indomitable spirit, contributions, culture or accomplishments.”
A powerful and empowering call to action by anti-racism activist Raymond Sheppard, directed especially at young African Nova Scotians.