Coming Nov. 2: GOTV Party with a Purpose - PURGE edition

Published October 30, 2019

We are building a movement of young people ready to lead our region in a direction that creates social, economic and ecological equity for all.

Open Buffalo Sees Progress Toward NYS Clean Energy Goals

Published October 25, 2019

Open Buffalo's Eric Walker returns from the ACENY conference to report  progress toward realizing New York's clean, sustainable energy future.

OB Advancing Voter Education and Access with New Initiative

Published October 8, 2019

This year marks the beginning of early voting for New Yorkers. OB staff and volunteers have launched an initiative to educate voters about important changes to voting rights and access to the polls.

Open Buffalo Represents At Alliance for Clean Energy New York's Conference

Published September 30, 2019

Eric Walker, OB Climate Strategist, shared his perspective on New York's energy future at the ACENY fall conference.

Justice Leadership Institute Equips Leaders with Hope and Tools to Become Changemakers

Published September 20, 2019

In early September, 100 individuals came together for Open Buffalo’s Justice Leadership Institute (JLI), the organization’s largest ever training event.

Open Buffalo Trainer Team Ready for Justice Leadership Institute!

Published August 26, 2019

The 2019 Open Buffalo Training Team is ready to facilitate a powerful community workshop for 100 community members at the first Justice Leadership Institute!

Call for Teaching Artists: Young Audiences WNY

Published August 8, 2019

Young Audiences of WNY seeks applicants for Master Teaching Artisits in their Fall and Spring ArtWorks program.

Apply Today: Open Buffalo's First Justice Leadership Institute!

Published July 10, 2019

Open Buffalo's Justice Leadership Institute launches the first weekend of September! Join us and you can find power in your personal story, make change in your community, and gain organizing skills. 

Just Released: 420 Community Video!

Published July 9, 2019

Check out the video recap of our 2019 'Restoration & Reclamation' event in April. 

Open Buffalo Celebrates Advancement of Justice, Reconciliation and Community Protection in NYS

Published July 1, 2019

Key elements of Open Buffalo's 2019 state legislative agenda succeed – community power in action

Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones Honored at ‘Voices Ending Violence’ Breakfast

Published June 7, 2019

2018 Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones continues to share her fellowship multimedia project on domestic violence with the Buffalo community, spreading a message of hope through Public Art! 

Movement Morning 2019: Where We've Been, What Comes Next

Published May 23, 2019

Open Buffalo's second annual Movement Morning was an occasion to celebrate the transformative impact of the organization’s last five years, and to look with anticipation to our course forward. 

Mentoring Matters: Guide an Emerging Leader

Published May 22, 2019

Mentoring is a special partnership between two people based on commitment to the mentoring process, common goals/expectations of the partnership and mutual trust and respect.

420 Community Day, Reimagined: Towards Reclamation & Restoration

Published May 3, 2019

On April 20, 2019, Buffalo residents came together in MLK Park to commemorate 420 Community Day in a new tradition of service and celebration. 

Save the Date: 2019 Movement Morning Breakfast!

Published May 2, 2019

Support Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders, Community Empowerment, and a better Buffalo! Enjoy a hot breakfast, an inspiring update on Open Buffalo's community impact -all this in an hour's time! 

Emerging Leaders 'Spring Forward' with First Alumni Gathering!

Published April 5, 2019

For the first time, alums from all Emerging Leaders' classes (2015 - 2018) gathered to connect with new folks and celebrate how the program continues to transform Buffalo's leadership. 

Coming Soon: "Reclamation & Restoration" 420 Community Day

Published March 30, 2019

Spread economic opportunity & justice in Buffalo! Build community power & resilience! Help end cannabis prohibition!

Open Buffalo Embodies Call to be ‘Agents of Change’ at NYSABPRL Caucus Weekend

Published February 18, 2019

Open Buffalo calls on state lawmakers to prioritize vulnerable communities, featured as presenters at the Caucus Weekend of the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators.

Open Buffalo welcomes Mayor Brown's new marijuana stance, continues larger cannabis justice agenda

Published February 18, 2019

Organization continues to push for statewide marijuana policy to repair and invest in communities on the frontline of the war on drugs

Open Buffalo Speaks out as Member of Fair Elections for New York Coalition

Published January 7, 2019

On Monday, January 7, Open Buffalo stood on the steps of Buffalo City Hall with local allies speaking in support of the Fair Elections for New York campaign.

A Moment to Celebrate: 2018 Emerging Leaders and Democracy Fellows Graduate

Published December 18, 2018

Open Buffalo honored 35 outstanding individuals and marked two milestones for the Leadership Development division as a whole: graduating our 100th Emerging Leader and 1st class of Democracy Fellows.

Open Buffalo Statement on Proposed "Public Charge" Rule

Published December 10, 2018

Open Buffalo firmly opposes the Trump Administration's latest anti-immigrant policy proposal for "Public Charge" Rule as an explicit attack on low-income immigrant families and communities of color.

Emerging Leader Kenyana David on The Public Good!

Published November 27, 2018

Emerging Leader Kenyana David on The Public Good to discuss entrepreneurship and her consultancy for women-owned firms, 81 Eighteen. 

Strong Community Turnout for Anti-Gentrification Summit

Published November 21, 2018

Over 100 residents from the city of Buffalo attended the Second Annual Anti-Gentrification Summit to begin conversations on creative resistance, community-driven development, & solutions-based policy.

F.B. Community Land Trust on The Public Good

Published November 20, 2018

 F.B. Community Land Trust talks on The Public Good about the growth of community-controlled economy and innovative policy solutions for affordable housing in the Fruit Belt neighborhood.  

Tomorrow- Open Buffalo Participates in Giving Tuesday!

Published November 20, 2018

What if we all gave on one day? We can! On November 27, 2018, our community will come together for #GivingTuesday to sustain Open Buffalo's work of education and empowerment. 

OUR CITY Coalition featured on The Public Good!

Published November 13, 2018

Meghan Maloney de Zaldivar of the OUR CITY Coalition is invited on The Public Good to discuss the coalition's mission, policy platform, and the upcoming Anti-Gentrification Summit. 

OUR CITY's Anti-Displacement Month Kicks Off!

Published November 7, 2018

The Our CITY Coalition held a press conference to kick off November as Anti-Displacement Month, with upcoming events dedicated to inspire the Buffalo community to build a prosperous city for all.

Democracy Fellow Bernadette Giles on the Public Good!

Published November 6, 2018

Democracy Fellow Bernadette Giles shares her community project on women's professional development with The Public Good. 

Open Buffalo Statement on Changes to Flores Settlement Agreement

Published November 5, 2018

 In solidarity with our partner, the New York Immigration Coalition, Open Buffalo opposes the unraveling of federal protections for the rights of migrant children. 

Raise Your Voice against the Attack on Immigrant Families!

Published October 23, 2018

The federal administration continues its attack on immigrant communities, but you can speak up against its policies! 

Climbing PoeTree: Live in Buffalo Invokes the Power of Art for Activism

Published October 11, 2018

Open Buffalo welcomed the return of Climbing PoeTree for a free community performance that inspired and energized all in attendance.   

Victory for the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust!

Published October 4, 2018

F.B. Community Land Trust receives the coveted “Voters Choice” award at IGNITE! Community Pitch Fest for their innovative work against displacement and towards neighborhood solutions.  

Open Buffalo's Franchelle Parker Featured on Black Women's Pay Equity Panel

Published October 2, 2018

OB Executive Director Franchelle Parker spoke up for policy solutions to the gender pay gap that disproportionately afflicts Black women.  

Buffalo Police Advisory Board on the Public Good

Published October 2, 2018

Members of the Buffalo Police Advisory Board go on The Public Good to discuss residents’ top concerns about policing collected from community forums and next steps to improve policing in Buffalo. 

Learning on the Move: Emerging Leaders’ Buffalo Bus Tour

Published October 1, 2018

On the Buffalo Bus Tour, Open Buffalo's Emerging Leaders traded the classroom for an opportunity to learn about the city on the road and on foot.   

Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones on The Public Good!

Published September 24, 2018

Democracy Fellow Michelle Jones discusses her project, From the Inside Out, on The Public Good

2018 Emerging Leaders Class Kicks off with Intensive Retreat

Published August 28, 2018

Thirty leaders hail from a number of neighborhoods in Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and each one is committed to bringing about real change in our communities and breaking the cycles of oppression.

Beyond Language; Using the Arts to Bridge Cultural Differences

Published August 25, 2018

Open Buffalo was proud to participate as a partner with BAS, and in support of incredible visual artist Muhammad Z. Zaman (2018 Open Buffalo Emerging Artist).

New Beginnings on Jefferson

Published August 25, 2018

Have you heard? Open Buffalo has officially moved into the historic Jefferson Avenue corridor!

Democracy Fellow Michael Zak on the Public Good!

Published August 21, 2018

Democracy Fellow Mike Zak talks with the Public Good about his fellowship project, curriculum development for a youth training program with Gro-operative on Buffalo's East Side. 

OB Shares Anti-Displacement Strategies at "Fearless Cities"

Published August 6, 2018

During  Fearless Cities summit, Community Organizer India Walton led an engaging and informative workshop titled “Strategies for Reclaiming Land for Communities.”

Buffalo Arts Studio to present special summer 2018 project: "Connections"

Published July 11, 2018

Buffalo Arts Studio is proud to present a special Summer 2018 project titled "Connections," providing an opportunity to meaningfully link artists with communities.

El Museo Seeks Artists for "Your Utica Station" Project

Published July 5, 2018

Calling Buffalo-based visual artists, illustrators, and designers! El Museo is looking for you to be a part of our new project Your Utica Station. Deadline to apply is July 31.

Want to Pitch at Pitch 10? Submit your application today.

Published July 5, 2018

Next Generation United is looking for 10 orgranizations to compete for funding for community impact projects and programs.

Make a Difference through Mentorship

Published June 6, 2018

Find out how mentoring an Open Buffalo Emerging Leader makes a meaningful contribution toward a stronger and more resilient community.

OB Public Research Fellow Nicole Hallett on the Public Good

Published June 5, 2018

Nicole Hallett is featured on The Public Good to discuss her research on widespread violations of wage and safety laws in Buffalo.

Emerging Leader Spotlight: Andrea Gonzalez

Published June 4, 2018

Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders are dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo. This installment features Andrea Gonzalez, a 2017 graduate.

Democracy Fellow Andrew Marcum on The Public Good!

Published May 23, 2018

Democracy Fellow Andrew Marcum talks with the Public Good about his project to increase civic and community engagement among folks with disabilities in Buffalo & Erie County.

“Movement Morning” a Landmark Occasion for OB

Published May 16, 2018

May 15 fundraiser was a time to take stock of progress and lay groundwork for an even brighter future.

OB's India Walton Talks Marijuana Reform on The Public Good

Published May 3, 2018

OB's Lead Organizer India Walton discusses disparities within marijuana enforcement in Buffalo and the fight to make marijuana the lowest level enforcement priority (LLEP) for Buffalo police. 

Report Finds Widespread Violations of Workers’ Rights in Buffalo

Published April 11, 2018

The Partnership for the Public Good and Open Buffalo release report revealing widespread violations of wage and safety laws in Buffalo.

Buffalo Selected for New Anti-Displacement Policy Network!

Published March 27, 2018

Ten cities will work together on strategies to fight displacement and build inclusive, prosperous cities.

Emerging Leader Spotlight: Jillian Hanesworth

Published March 16, 2018

Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders are dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo. This installment features Jillian Hanesworth, a 2017 graduate.

Get Ready to Spring It On with OB March 20-21!

Published March 16, 2018

Be a part of Western New York's day of giving - an opportunity to unite our community around causes in which we truly believe and help nonprofit organizations connect to the larger community.

Open Buffalo's Danielle Johnson Named to New Community Police Advisory Body

Published March 8, 2018

OB Justice & Opportunity partners advocated for creation of new entity, which will make recommendations on how community-police relationships can be improved.  

PPG, Open Buffalo Welcome Disbandment of BPD's "Strike Force"

Published February 9, 2018

Community groups applaud reform, reiterate longstanding call for

full-scale community policing program.

Open Buffalo Applauds City of Buffalo’s Commitment of Properties to the F.B. Community Land Trust

Published January 28, 2018

Land trust will empower Fruit Belt residents to determine and design the future of their neighborhood.

Apply today to become a Champion for Change with One Region Forward!

Published January 4, 2018

Are you resolved to make a difference in 2018? Apply today to become a Champion for Change with One Region Forward!

Pitch Your Project in Next Generation United Competition

Published January 4, 2018

Next Generation United seeks interest from nonprofits that could use a grant of up to $4,000 to advance their work in the Buffalo and Erie County community.

VISIONS Photography Reception & Silent Auction Returns Feb. 2

Published January 4, 2018

Reception & silent auction will feature photos taken by members of Buffalo's social justice community.

2017 Emerging Leaders Honored Before Family & Friends

Published December 16, 2017

Two dozen individuals graduate, empowered and inspired to improve Buffalo.

New Innovation Lab Report by PPG Lifts up Affordable Housing Strategies for Buffalo

Published December 4, 2017

PPG has written a new report for the Open Buffalo Innovation Lab titled “Affordable Housing Strategies for the City of Buffalo.”

For Immediate Release: Local Advocates Welcome City’s Housing Opportunity Strategy and Offer Additional Data and Recommendations

Published December 3, 2017

Local housing advocates and experts have responded to presentations of the City of Buffalo’s draft Housing Opportunity Strategy that were made to various groups this week.

For Immediate Release: Buffalo Advocates Join Assemblymember to Call for an End to Marijuana Prohibition in New York

Published November 14, 2017

New Buffalo Report Shows Stark Marijuana Arrest Disparities.

Media Advisory: National Scholar Dr. Marc Lamont Hill to Engage Hundreds in Buffalo this Thursday

Published October 24, 2017

Hill is a well-respected authority on culture, politics, and education, as well as the author of a New York Times Best Seller.

Hill is a well-respected authority on culture, politics, and education, as well as the author of a New York Times Best Seller.

People Power: Joining Forces to Address Gentrification in Buffalo

Published October 18, 2017

The summit stressed the interconnectedness of several problems in Buffalo, including police violence, the school to prison pipeline, lack of community control over resources, and racism.

"Youth Community Builder" Essay Contest!

Published September 11, 2017

As part of Open Buffalo’s annual Justice & Opportunity Series, we are hosting a competition for Buffalo high school students who want to make a difference in their community!

The 2017 Emerging Leaders Reflect on Opening Weekend

Published September 1, 2017

Weekend was not only a time to bond with fellow participants, but also an opportunity to reflect and meditate on the reasons why we feel called to fight for the betterment of Buffalo.

Take a Stand for Gender Equality in Buffalo

Published August 31, 2017

Tell your elected officials: We want gender equality in our city. We need the Buffalo CEDAW ordinance to secure the rights of all people of all genders in this great city.

NY Renews Coalition Makes Statement on Hurricane Harvey

Published August 28, 2017

Statewide NY Renews coalition pushes for legislative reforms to advance climate and community justice.

"Poetic Justice: Creative Space" Kicks off Justice & Opportunity Series

Published July 22, 2017

We welcomed a warm and engaged crowd of poets, musicians, spoken word artists, and community-minded souls for an evening of expression, healing, celebration, and movement-building.

On the Scene at Juneteenth 2017

Published June 18, 2017

Throughout the two-day festival, we talked to community members about tangible paths to systemic reforms.

Become a 2017 Democracy Fellow

Published June 13, 2017

Democracy Fellows will receive instruction in community-based skills, work directly in the community, and develop a community project that will be presented at the end of the fellowship.

Plenty of Inspiration at “Art & Activism”

Published June 5, 2017

Buffalo Arts Studio and Open Buffalo moderated a panel discussion between painter Julia Douglas, Professor Henry Louis Taylor, author Gary Earl Ross, poet Bianca McGraw, and filmmaker Korey Green. 

Emerging Artist Series Kicks Off with Julia Douglas' "Tinted"

Published June 2, 2017

On April 28, 2017, we were proud to help Buffalo-based visual artist Julia Douglas celebrate the opening of her first solo exhibition, titled “Tinted.” 

“Life Stories: Restoring Justice” A Success!

Published May 27, 2017

From the day that Prisoners Are People Too, Inc. was launched, it has provided a platform for formerly incarcerated people and their loved ones to tell their stories.

West Side Promise Neighborhood Leadership Program Launches June!

Published May 24, 2017

The program aims to raise up new leaders on Buffalo's West Side and empower residents on the West Side to have a voice in the West Side Promise Neighborhood coalition.

Mentor an Emerging Leader this Fall

Published May 23, 2017

Mentors play an important role in supporting the new leaders of Buffalo!

Released Today: Health Equity and the Path to Inclusive Prosperity in Buffalo

Published May 8, 2017

New Profile of Buffalo Highlights Dramatic Inequities and Opportunities to Reverse Them

PUSH Buffalo Seeks Community Energy Specialist

Published March 30, 2017

Position will lead community education, research, and planning efforts with the goal of developing a replicable participatory planning process and producing a comprehensive community energy plan.

Tell Cuomo: NY Needs to Lead on Climate

Published March 17, 2017

It is unacceptable for New York to forgo aggressive climate action as President Trump works to dismantle vital climate and environmental protections. Support the Climate & Community Protection Act.

Help Launch Buffalo's First Community Land Trust!

Published March 3, 2017

A fund has been established to assist the residents of the Fruit Belt community so that they will have a say in the building and revitalization of their community.

Apply Today to Become a Buffalo Community Youth Fellow!

Published March 1, 2017

The Community Youth Fellowships will support dynamic activists aged 18-25 who want to implement a project of their own design that advances human rights.

African Heritage Food Co-Op Joins Open Buffalo Network

Published February 23, 2017

This co-op is an answer to the lack of black food store ownership in the black community. It is an attempt at giving ownership and control to those that live in the community. It is an effort to allow the dollar to circulate in the community.

Become a 2017 Emerging Leader!

Published February 21, 2017

The Emerging Leaders program is a distinctive social justice curriculum aimed at building a stronger Buffalo.

After Policing Death, Community Demands Information, Transparent Investigation, and Policy Reform

Published February 8, 2017

Concerned people of Buffalo demand and deserve a swift and painstakingly transparent inquiry into the death of a civilian after an encounter with the Buffalo Police Department.

Allies Host "No Ban. No Wall. Rally for Immigrant, Refugee & Muslim Solidarity"

Published February 1, 2017

Open Buffalo joins a host of community allies in rallying in support of our immigrant, Muslim, and refugee neighbors and loved ones.

Building a Beloved Community

Published January 31, 2017

Fruit Belt Community Land Trust Fundraiser Coming Friday, Feb. 3.

Open Buffalo (Once Again) Calls for Carl Paladino's Resignation or Dismissal

Published December 27, 2016

Buffalo needs leadership that understands and fights for the needs of all — regardless of race, class, or gender.

Buffalonians Rally to Demand Inclusionary Zoning in City Green Code

Published December 20, 2016

By linking the production of affordable housing to the production of market-rate housing, Inclusionary Zoning is a powerful tool to combat Buffalo's affordable housing crisis.

The 2016 Emerging Leaders Class Graduates

Published December 17, 2016

The 2016 Emerging Leaders are 24 dynamic community leaders, representing a diverse range of identities and from every corner of Buffalo.

Inspiration & Enlightenment with Climbing PoeTree

Published December 5, 2016

Climbing PoeTree is a duo of longtime “soul sisters” whose voices and rhythmic creations have touched justice movements around the globe.

OSF Seeks Applicants for Community Youth Fellowship in Buffalo!

Published December 2, 2016

The Community Youth Fellowships will support dynamic activists aged 18–25 who want to implement a project of their own design that advances human rights in underserved communities.

New Report Urges Buffalo Policing Reforms

Published November 18, 2016

Calls for Collaboration, Communication, and Community-Building

VISIONS Showcases Community Work, Supports Emerging Leaders

Published November 12, 2016

This week, we were proud to recognize the work of our first social justice-themed photography class, “VISIONS: A Photographic Journey in Social Justice.”

OB Staff and Partners Talk "No Boundaries"

Published October 14, 2016

Franchelle Hart (Open Buffalo) and Steve Peraza (Partnership for the Public Good) discuss the content of the special-edition "No Boundaries" newspaper.

Pitch Your Social Innovation Project to NGU

Published October 12, 2016

NGU seeks interest from local nonprofits that could use a grant of up to $5,000 to advance their work in the areas of education, financial stability, and/or health & wellness.

Free Special Edition Newspaper Advocates for a Renaissance in All Buffalo Neighborhoods

Published October 11, 2016

In collaboration with Open Buffalo, Rise Collaborative debuts the first issue of "No Boundaries" - a special-edition, free newspaper carrying stories from typically underreported areas of Buffalo.

"VISIONS" to Culminate in Exhibition & Auction

Published October 5, 2016

Social-justice themed photography class will culminate in Nov. 11 exhibition and silent auction, hosted by CEPA Gallery and Open Buffalo.