Dr. Afua Cooper, a Jamaican-Canadian historian, poet, and scholar, has been honored with the Order of Nova Scotia, the province’s highest distinction. This recognition celebrates her exceptional contributions to literature, Black Canadian studies, and community building. Here are five key things to know about this trailblazing figure:
1. A Pioneer in Black Canadian Studies
Dr. Cooper has spent over 25 years championing the study of Black Canadian history and culture. Her groundbreaking work, particularly in developing the field of Black Canadian Studies, has made a lasting impact on Canadian scholarship. She is best known for her book The Hanging of Angelique, which examines Canada’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
2. Former Halifax Poet Laureate
As Halifax’s Poet Laureate from 2018 to 2020, Dr. Cooper brought stories of the African diaspora to life through her poetry. Her time as Poet Laureate further solidified her role as a cultural bridge, connecting Nova Scotia’s history with contemporary voices.
3. Mentor and Advocate for Inclusivity
Dr. Cooper is a dedicated mentor to Black and racialized students, faculty, and artists. Her influence extends beyond academia, as she actively supports community organizations and fosters spaces for African Canadian voices in the arts and education sectors.
4. An Academic Trailblazer
Dr. Cooper taught at Dalhousie University in Halifax for 13 years, where she left a profound impact on students and colleagues. In 2024, she became a full professor at the University of Toronto, furthering her mission to integrate Black Canadian history into mainstream academic discourse.
5. Jamaican Roots, Canadian Legacy
Born in Westmoreland and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Dr. Cooper immigrated to Canada in 1980. Her Jamaican heritage deeply informs her work, blending a Caribbean perspective with her Canadian experiences to create a unique voice in literature and scholarship.
Order of Nova Scotia Recognition
Dr. Cooper joins an esteemed group of Nova Scotians in receiving the Order of Nova Scotia for 2024. This honor acknowledges her unwavering commitment to cultural heritage and education, which has enriched both the province and the nation.
The formal ceremony will take place at Government House in the spring of 2025, celebrating Dr. Cooper’s achievements alongside fellow honorees from fields such as law, philanthropy, and the arts.
