Engagement methods

The content of this report as well as the recommendations solely comprise the perspectives and experiences of individuals based in Nova Scotia that participated in the community engagement sessions. ANSJI, being an organization centered on justice, has refrained from offering any input on the questions in order to prioritize the community’s voice.

In Nova Scotia, it is commonplace for the Black community to actively participate in discussions and actions pertaining to justice-related issues. However, this high level of engagement often leads to a feeling of pessimism and despair within many Black communities in Nova Scotia. The community continually wants to see action as a result of their continued engagement and consultation. Despite these feelings, there continues to remain a sense of hope for positive transformations and improvements.

The Province of Nova Scotia is a large province, with just over one-million people. To ensure optimum engagement throughout Nova Scotia, ANSJI employed a multifaceted approach to generating discussion. In order to cater to the specific needs of the diverse communities, including but not limited to low-income families, and rural communities. A range of avenues for individuals to submit their feedback were provided, as well, sessions took place during afternoons, evenings, and weekends.

It was important to provide a balance of in-person sessions, and virtual sessions in order to cover the vastness of Nova Scotia. Virtual sessions were carried out using the zoom platform and were by registration only.

Advertisement of sessions

Sessions were advertised through a wide variety of methods. We used social media, a large email list of over 100 community leaders and service providers in Nova scotia, word of mouth, and print materials.