Members of the Africville Heritage Trust are raising concerns about how the land that makes up Africville is being used.
Africville was the first settlement of free black people in North America, but, in recent years, it has become a popular spot for dog owners, due to its “off leash area”.
“In the evenings, there are a lot of people that come down here and there is a lot of people who use this park for their dogs, and the dogs get along fine, there’s no fighting, which I like,” says dog owner Pat Mason.
There have been complaints from park users who say owners don’t pick up after their pets.
Laura MacNeil, who owns a dog, understands why having dogs run free in the area is upsetting some members of the community.
“It is a historical site and a lot did happen here. So I can understand why it’s a testy subject,” says MacNeil.
City staff is currently preparing a report that will bring forward public concerns. It will be delivered to council in June.
“We’re really looking at the future of the park, specifically relating to the off leash aspect, and what to do with the dogs,” says Halifax Regional Municipality spokesperson, Brendan Elliot.
For now, some former residents of Africville say the presence of the dogs is insulting, considering the area’s rich history.
Sunday Miller, with the Africville Heritage Trust, says Africville needs to create a new sense of community.
“Maybe even recreate the corner store so it can become a place where, when people come down here, they can get ice cream, and get more information about Africville,” says Miller.
Former residents and Heritage groups believe if Africville’s history was better understood, tourists from all over the world would want to visit.
