Dr. Clement Ligoure, Nova Scotia’s first Black Physician, might be the most under-appreciated hero in Halifax’s history. And now Halifax City Council is jeopardizing the living legacy of Dr. Ligoure; his Home and Clinic on North and Robie.

Once again, the politicians and developers of the region are attempting to erase Black and working class history as they demolish a neighbourhood for their proposed Robie St widening project. Dr. Ligoure’s home clinic was built in connection with its neighbouring house, which has been marked by Council for its residents to be evicted and the building town down. Unfortunately, separating these homes may be impossible without damaging or destroying them. So far, Council has refused to protect Dr. Ligoure’s home clinic.

The story of Dr. Ligoure’s bravery and dedication during the Halifax Explosion is briefly described in this short animation.

The Friends of the Halifax Common is proud to have been part of the efforts to have Dr. Ligoure’s home designated by the city as an official heritage property. Unfortunately, this doesn’t prevent the current City Council from tearing it down forever. 

Another fierce advocate for this heritage designation has been the great George Elliot Clarke. Here, the advocate, scholar, poet, and Order of Canada recipient shares his letter of support for the designation, which lays out the case for the unarguable importance of this piece of our shared history.

Please join in the calls for Halifax City Council to stop the proposed Robie St. widening project, protect Dr. Ligoure’s home clinic, and allow community members to return to the homes where Council has been evicting them (largely made up of deeply affordable units, including an entire apartment building for Mi’kmaq Haligonians, all evicted in 2025).

You can write to the City Council and local decision-makers at this link.