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African Nova Scotian Justice Institute
Founded in 2022
The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute (ANSJI) is a non-profit advocacy organization that provides free legal services and guidance to African Nova Scotians and Black people of African descent living in Nova Scotia.
Our Mandate
To address issues of systemic racism, discrimination, and inequities within the justice system that negatively impact African Nova Scotians and Black people of African descent living in Nova Scotia, while ensuring fair, legal, and constitutional treatment.
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The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute's work is grounded in four key pillars (units):
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Our Vision
The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute (ANSJI) creates effective programs and services to address issues faced by African Nova Scotians and Black people of African descent living in Nova Scotia and their families when dealing with human rights complaints, the justice system, law enforcement, and incarceration.
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We strive to be a trusted and accessible resource where individuals can seek legal advice, guidance, and advocacy that respects unique identities and experiences.
ANSJI is recognized by government, non-government organizations, academic institutions, and community groups as a leader in legal research, advocacy, and education on justice issues impacting marginalized communities.
Background
​In July 2021, the Province of Nova Scotia invested in a new community-led justice institute to support African Nova Scotians in contact with the law and to help address overrepresentation and anti-Black racism in the justice system.
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The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute, the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada, was established out of the African Nova Scotian Decade for People of African Descent Coalition working group. Read the full provincial news release here.
Watch Criminal Lawyer Desireé Jones-Matthias share insights on the work:
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