Reflections
A Black Man's Story
by Kevin Glasgow-Brooks

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In 1814, two brothers escaped slavery in the United States and were given safe passage to Nova Scotia, where they began a new life and faced new hardships. Despite the harsh weather, lack of government support, and resentment from their white neighbours, the brothers persevered. Seven generations later, Kevin Glasgow-Brooks was born into a society that still harbours the systemic prejudices that his ancestors faced 200 years ago. Kevin filed a human rights complaint against the Nova Scotia Department of Justice in 2012. Why? Follow Kevin as he traces the events of his life, from growing up in rural Nova Scotia to joining the Canadian Armed Forces to working to improve race relations within the prison system in Nova Scotia. His story reveals the often subtle and sometimes blatant ways in which black individuals and black communities experience insidious instances of prejudice and discrimination within their lives. Though shaped by the colour of his skin, Kevin’s story showcases what determination and resilience look like, and highlights the inspiring, real-life consequences of standing up for one’s worth.

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Kevin Glasgow-Brooks grew up in the historic black community of East Preston in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He spent seven years as a combat engineer in the Canadian Armed Forces and 28 years working within Canadian correctional institutions. Kevin received the Minister’s Award for Exceptional Service in Corrections for his work in race relations and human rights. Kevin is a community builder, activist, and volunteer within the black community in East Preston, where he lives with his wife, Sonia.

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Kevin Glasgow-Brooks