Sylvia Hamilton

Sylvia D. Hamilton is a Nova Scotian filmmaker, writer and artist whose work explores the lives and experiences of people of African descent. Her special focus is on African Nova Scotians, and especially women. In particular, her work takes the form of documentary films, writing, public presentations, teaching, mentoring, extensive volunteer work and community involvement. She has uncovered stories of struggles and contributions of African Canadians and introduced them to mainstream audiences. Through her work, she exposes the roots and the presence of systemic racism in Canada. She aims to provide opportunities for Black and Native youth through education and empowerment.

Hamilton grew up in Beechville, a community founded by the Black Refugees from the War of 1812, located west of Halifax, Nova Scotia. She was the second youngest child of six to Gerald and Marie Hamilton. Gerald was a labourer and Marie was a teacher in segregated schools. As a child in Beechville, Hamilton attended a segregated all-black primary school and then switched to a non-segregated high school outside of her community. In this non-segregated school, Hamilton experienced what she called a “very alien environment.” For example, the history of black people was absent from school textbooks throughout her years in high school and university. Hamilton went elsewhere to find a supportive black community and found it in the African Baptist church. It was in this encouraging setting she was able to learn and cultivate public speaking skills, which she later used to spread her own experiences and those of others. She was the first person from Beechville to graduate from high school. She earned post-secondary degrees, namely a BA from Acadia University, an MA from Dalhousie University and has been awarded three honorary degrees from Saint Mary’s, Dalhousie and Acadia Universities.

She is an independent filmmaker who produces and directs films through her company Maroon Films Inc. She is also a professor at the University of King’s College’s School of Journalism.

...
Wikipedia