Media Advisory

A new name in recognition of a historic community

(Thursday, July 30, 2009) - A North End Halifax road will receive a significant honour on July 31 when it is renamed in recognition of the historic community of Africville.

In a July 31 ceremony during the opening day of the annual Africville celebrations, Service Road will receive its new name, Africville Road

Africville Geneological Society spokesman Irvine Carvery, who spent his early boyhood in Africville, said the event holds national significance.

“The name Africville speaks to the former residents and their descendants about home, a place where their ancestors celebrated life in a close-knit community that remains an indelible part of the city’s history,” said Mr. Carvery. “The renaming of the road that once led to Africville will allow generations to come to feel a tangible connection to their roots and a sense of belonging.”

Mayor Kelly, members of Halifax Regional Council, and other special guests will join former Africville residents and their descendants for the name change ceremony.

“I look forward to marking this special day, which represents a small but significant step toward appropriate recognition of Africville, a community that once stood on the shores of Bedford Basin and still remain in the hearts of many.”

Date: Friday, July 31, 2009
Time: 5 pm
Location: Seaview Park, 5399 Africville Rd. (formerly Service Road)

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Contact:
Irvine Carvery
Africville Geneological Society
(902) 420-6053

Mayor Peter Kelly
(902) 490-4010

Shaune MacKinlay
Manager, Public Affairs
Halifax Regional Municipality
(902) 490-6531