Wendie Wilson (Questions and Project suggestions)

African Nova Scotian flag (above)

An educator, cultural advocate, and artist, Wendie Wilson has devoted her life to celebrating and amplifying the African Nova Scotian (ANS) community's heritage. She co-founded the African Nova Scotian Freedom School, a platform to instill pride and education in young minds, and created the African Nova Scotian flag, a powerful symbol representing the voice and identity of her community. Wendie's work in food sovereignty also addresses systemic inequities, ensuring Black and Indigenous voices are at the forefront of transforming Canada’s food systems.

Grades 3-5: Understanding Heritage and Symbols

What does the African Nova Scotian flag represent, and why is it important for the community?
Critical Question: Why do symbols like flags help people feel proud of their heritage?
How does Wendie Wilson’s work in the African Nova Scotian Freedom School help children learn about their culture?
Critical Question: How can learning about your culture make you feel stronger and more connected to your community?
Why do you think food is such an important part of a community’s culture and identity?
Critical Question: What kinds of foods from your culture make you feel proud or connected to your family?
What is the role of an educator like Wendie Wilson in helping to celebrate and preserve culture?
Critical Question: How can we make sure that everyone learns about and celebrates the cultures of others?
How does Wendie Wilson’s work help fight systemic inequality in Canada?
Critical Question: What are some ways we can work together to make sure everyone has the same opportunities?

Grades 5-8: Exploring Identity and Food Sovereignty

What does the African Nova Scotian Freedom School aim to teach, and why are these lessons important?
Critical Question: How can schools make sure they teach the stories of all communities in a way that’s fair and respectful?
Why did Wendie Wilson create the African Nova Scotian flag, and what does it symbolize?
Critical Question: What symbols or flags do you see in your own community that represent its identity?
What is food sovereignty, and how is it important to both African Nova Scotian and Indigenous communities?
Critical Question: How can food sovereignty change the way communities access and enjoy food?
How does Wendie Wilson’s work help fight systemic inequities in Canada’s food systems?
Critical Question: What are some changes you think need to happen to make the food system more fair for everyone?
Why is it important for people from all backgrounds to have a platform to share their voices and stories?
Critical Question: How can you help others share their stories so their voices are heard in your school or community?

Grades 8-12: Advanced Advocacy and Systemic Change

How does Wendie Wilson’s creation of the African Nova Scotian flag help unify and empower the community?
Critical Question: How do you think symbols like flags and emblems help strengthen a group’s sense of identity and pride?
What role does education play in helping young people understand and celebrate their culture, and how can it shape their future?
Critical Question: How can you create opportunities for others to learn about and celebrate your own culture?
In what ways can food sovereignty contribute to addressing the challenges faced by Black and Indigenous communities in Canada?
Critical Question: How can you raise awareness about food sovereignty and its impact on society?
Why is Wendie Wilson’s work important for ensuring Black and Indigenous voices are part of transforming Canada’s food systems?
Critical Question: How can media, policy changes, and education systems support the inclusion of marginalized voices in important decisions?
How do Wendie Wilson’s contributions to culture, education, and food sovereignty inspire other communities to advocate for change?
Critical Question: How can you contribute to making positive changes in your community that support equality and representation?

PROJECTS:

Grades 3-5: Learning About Heritage and Symbols

Design Your Own Flag:
Inspired by Wendie Wilson’s creation of the African Nova Scotian flag, students design a flag that represents their own community or family. Include an explanation of the colors and symbols chosen.
Heritage Show-and-Tell:
Students research one element of African Nova Scotian heritage, like food, music, or art, and present it to the class.
Create a Freedom School Poster:
Design a poster for a Freedom School aimed at teaching pride and heritage. Include topics they think should be taught.
Food and Culture Collage:
Create a collage showing foods from different cultures, including African Nova Scotian cuisine. Write a few sentences about why food is important to culture.
Storytime About Community:
Write or draw a story about a community leader or someone who helps others, like Wendie Wilson. Share why this person is inspiring.

Grades 5-8: Exploring Identity and Food Sovereignty

Flag Presentation:
Research the African Nova Scotian flag and present what each part of the flag symbolizes. Compare it to another flag they find meaningful.
Heritage Walk Project:
Create a map or timeline showing important places and events in African Nova Scotian history. Include Wendie Wilson’s contributions.
Community Cookbook:
Compile recipes from their families or communities into a class cookbook. Include a section on African Nova Scotian food and how it connects to culture and history.
School Food Audit:
Conduct a food audit in the school cafeteria or at home. Discuss what foods are missing that reflect diverse cultures and propose ideas for change.
Freedom School Program:
Design a week-long Freedom School schedule. Include topics and activities students think would help others learn about pride, heritage, and systemic change.

Grades 8-12: Advanced Advocacy and Systemic Change

Flag and Identity Analysis:
Write an essay or create a presentation on how symbols like flags represent identity and unify communities, using the African Nova Scotian flag as an example.
Food Sovereignty Debate:
Host a debate or discussion on food sovereignty. Research Wendie Wilson’s contributions and propose solutions for making Canada’s food systems more equitable.
Community Heritage Documentary:
Create a short video or slideshow about African Nova Scotian heritage, focusing on the role of educators and advocates like Wendie Wilson.
Freedom School Curriculum:
Design a detailed curriculum for a modern Freedom School. Include lessons on heritage, leadership, food systems, and community pride.
Advocacy Campaign:
Plan a campaign to promote food sovereignty or cultural pride in their community. Include posters, social media content, and ideas for community events.