Open Buffalo’s RPP Program Completes a Banner Week

Published March 26, 2024

In the span of four short days last week, The Race Power and Privilege (RPP) Program completed an outstanding week of five distinct trainings and community engagements throughout Buffalo.

NOW OPEN! Applications for Open Buffalo’s Emerging Leaders Class of 2024

Published March 6, 2024

The Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders Program is again recruiting up-and-coming change agents. 
 

Open Buffalo Seeks Firm to Conduct Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment

Published March 2, 2024

Environmental Site Assessment Will Support Development of the Open Buffalo Urban Ecology Center

Bhardwaj Speaks on panel addressing Medicaid equity issues

Published February 22, 2024

The panel discussed how the underfunding of Medicaid contributes to poor health outcomes largely in the Black and Latino communities, particularly affecting low-income seniors, expectant mothers, young children from low-income families, and people with disabilities.

MLK Day of Service Was Rewarding for All Involved

Published January 22, 2024

For our 2024 MLK Day of Service, Open Buffalo was accompanied by Nickel City Ultimate and the Buffalo Urban League Young Professionals.

Job Alert: Open Buffalo Seeks Executive Operations Specialist

Published January 16, 2024

We are seeking a highly motivated and organized Executive Operations Specialist to provide comprehensive support to our Executive Director, Franchelle Parker. The ideal candidate will be a proactive and detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Open Buffalo Applauds Reparations Progress in New York

Published December 20, 2023

In the state of New York, there is concrete evidence of the long-term psychic damage inflicted upon the Black community, including the subsequent effects on housing discrimination, biased policing, income inequality and mass incarceration of African Americans.

A Milestone in Pursuit of "Getting the Lead Out"

Published December 19, 2023

Open Buffalo is proud to help bring to the public a new data-mapping tool that will help our community develop a clearer picture of the problem of lead pipes delivering water to city homes.

Celebrating Inaugural Youth Action Organizing Summit Series

Published December 18, 2023

Training sessions designed to not be a sixth day of school, but a hands-on workshop where your real-time learning can be applied as soon as you walk out the door.

Getting Out The Vote Was Successful Again in 2023

Published December 18, 2023

This year our all-star support team for Getting out the Vote (GOTV) paved a foundation for future years!

Albany Boot Camp Primed Re-Entry Support Team for 2024

Published December 4, 2023

There is no other better example of building together and creating community than a passionate community-focused, service training.

Open Buffalo Launches Ecology Center Capital Campaign!

Published November 21, 2023

The Open Buffalo Ecology Center is a 10-acre urban refuge that will be housed on Buffalo’s East Side. It will offer the ample green space, outdoor recreation, educational opportunities, and community-building spaces and activities intended to correct the financial and physical harms inflicted upon Black bodies amid decades of environmental racism, systematic disinvestment, and a worsening climate crisis. 

A Tribute to Ms. Ina J. Ferguson

Published November 14, 2023

Ms. Ina had a deep passion for caring for her “community babies,” being a god-mom, mentoring, and being an educational advocate, leaving an indelible mark on Buffalo Public Schools at every level.

Parker Honored at 51st Annual Black Achievers Awards

Published October 6, 2023

Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker was honored at the 51st Black Achievers Awards on September 30, 2023.

Ya'Ukuu featured on WBFO's "What's Next?"

Published October 4, 2023

Ecological Justice Coordinator Tendaji Ya'Ukuu sat down to discuss these projects and more with WBFO's "What's Next?" program.

The Emerging Leaders Community Bus Tour Returns

Published September 18, 2023

Last Saturday, September 16, we were happy to celebrate the return of the Emerging Leaders community bus tour!

OB Hosts UB Law Students For Riveting Discussion

Published September 16, 2023

Open Buffalo engaged a riveted audience of students from The University at Buffalo Law School on September 15, 2003.

Job Alert: Open Buffalo Seeks Administrative Director

Published September 7, 2023

The primary responsibilities of the Open Buffalo Administrative Director relate to the smooth flow of operations as well as the day-to day management of the office, finances, human resources, and personnel policy.

Prioritize self-care in honor of Audre Lorde

Published September 1, 2023

September is National Suicide Prevention and Self-Care Awareness month. National BRAVE Day is observed on the last Friday of the month too, serving as a reminder for women to seek strength in one another. Thus, we celebrate the late and great Audre Lorde, who defined intersectionality well before the term was coined.

A message from Open Buffalo in the wake of anti-Black mass murder in Jacksonville

Published August 28, 2023

Open Buffalo reaffirms our commitment to teaching anti-racism, love, and justice.

Join us for the Juneteenth Parade!

Published June 7, 2023

Bring your loved ones and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Juneteenth Parade. Enjoy colorful floats, and inspiring performances. Let's come together to make cherished memories and strengthen our unity as we celebrate this significant moment in our history!

How Clean Is Buffalo's Transportation?

Published May 22, 2023

A collective of buffalo organizations are looking to collaborate with community members to address clean mobility issues throughout the East Side of Buffalo.

FREE Residential Soil Sampling

Published May 12, 2023

Open Buffalo is collaborating with a professor and Environmental Science Ph.D. to test the soil of homes within a half-mile radius of the previous General Motors and American Axel Site; in labs at Buffalo State University.

Emerging Leaders Applications are Open!

Published May 4, 2023

The Emerging Leaders Program is changing the face of leadership and decision-making in our communities. It is distinguished by its unique focus on leadership for justice and social change, as well as our community of alumni and mentors.

WKBW Visits Open Buffalo

Published April 21, 2023

Open Buffalo makes the News!

Open Buffalo’s Youth Action Leaders Take Civic Engagement Training On the Road

Published March 15, 2023

On February 28, Open Buffalo’s Youth Action team led a civic engagement training, “Train for a Change,” for the Erie-Niagara AHEC PATCH Teen Educators.

Open Buffalo Releases 2022 Annual Report!

Published March 13, 2023

Reflecting on the past 12 months, 2022 hardened Open Buffalo's resolve to build community resilience, increased our capacity to love, and inspired us to double down on strengthening and uplifting the individuals who suffer racial, economic, and ecological injustices everyday. Our team invites you to explore what that looked like in action last year.

Request for Proposals: Community Partner Sought For Community Based Green Energy Project Focused On East Side

Published February 27, 2023

Heart of The City Neighborhood Inc. (HOCN) and Open Buffalo seek a Stakeholder Liaison to assure project connection with and representation of communities of people living in Buffalo’s East Side for a green mobility initiative.  Responses to this RFP must be received by 12pm, March 23, 2023.

Request for Proposals: Marketing/Advertising Team Sought For Community Based Green Energy Project

Published February 17, 2023

Heart of The City Neighborhood Inc. (HOCN) and Open Buffalo seek a communications team to shape branding, public relations, and marketing for a community-based 2.5 year campaign focused on green mobility in Buffalo’s East Side.

Sign up today: Power Up Summer Boot Camp for WNY Youth

Published February 16, 2023

Join Open Buffalo this June for a weeklong Community Organizing Boot Camp, in which we will train young leaders between the ages of 14-24 in a variety of Organizing skills and tactics.

When is Enough, Enough?

Published November 23, 2022

Open Buffalo statement on the Colorado Springs, CO shootings

Open Buffalo Civic Engagement Fellowship Reflection

Published November 13, 2022

During Civic Engagement fellowship with Open Buffalo, Temara Cross actively used and reflected on tools gained from previous leadership and outreach experiences.

Reflecting on my civic engagement fellowship with Open Buffalo

Published November 13, 2022

Byron Chavis: "Joining this fellowship was a great accomplishment for me personally, and it has been nothing but amazing."

Open Buffalo Podcast Relaunch

Published October 26, 2022

We're back and better! Premiering TONIGHT at 5pm is the re-launch of our podcast! 

 

 

Ecological Justice Training Coming 12/3. Register Today!

Published October 20, 2022

Learn about the history of environmental contamination in WNY, causes of climate change, and Just Transition solutions to help save the planet.

Parker Delivers Keynote Address at Hilbert College

Published October 7, 2022

On October 4, 2022, Hilbert College, as part of St. Francis week had Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker as their keynote speaker. 

Job Alert: Open Buffalo Seeks to Hire Credible Community Messengers

Published September 29, 2022

The goal of the Credible Community Mentor position is to provide support and resources for youth returning from the juvenile justice system.

National Voter Registration Day 2022

Published September 22, 2022

Open Buffalo hosts an event for National Voter Registration Day

Funding Opportunity for Jefferson Avenue Tops Employees

Published August 9, 2022

In collaboration with Social Change, Open Buffalo will offer hardship awards to current and former Tops Supermarket employees.

 

Open Buffalo's 2nd Annual Color Run A Success

Published August 2, 2022

Fun was had by all at the annual event.

Open Buffalo is Honored to Be Selected for the 2022 Justice40 Accelerator Cohort

Published June 29, 2022

Anchored in love and service, the Justice40 Accelerator is a 12-month program that will provide Open Buffalo seed funding, technical assistance, training, connections, and peer support as we seek federal funding flowing from the Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative. 

Open Buffalo Celebrates Juneteenth 2022

Published June 18, 2022

Open Buffalo was in person at Juneteenth 2022!

One Month Later: Recovery, Resources, and Resolve

Published June 15, 2022

One month after the May 14 Tops terrorist attack, Open Buffalo provides an update on the ongoing recovery efforts and offers gratitude for widespread support.

Open Buffalo Baby Club

Published May 27, 2022

This program aims to build relationships with local families and give away baby supplies.

Open Buffalo statement on the Buffalo Massacre

Published May 18, 2022

Open Buffalo stands steadfast to our commitment to achieve racial equity in Buffalo.

Freedom Summer/716 Votes! Paid Phone & Text Banking Opportunity

Published May 5, 2022

Open Buffalo is looking for young adults to phone and text bank. Get paid $20 an hour!

Open Buffalo celebrates Sankofa 2022

Published April 5, 2022

At Open Buffalo's third annual Sankofa celebration, we took time to revisit our recent accomplishments and reconnect with our friends, partners, and allies.

Franchelle Parker honored by Buffalo Urban League

Published March 26, 2022

Franchelle Parker receives the Community Service Award at Buffalo Urban League's Annual Gala

The War Over Ukraine

Published March 11, 2022

Open Buffalo discusses the events of Ukraine with filmmaker Lukia Costello

Join Open Buffalo in celebrating Sankofa 2022

Published February 18, 2022

Open Buffalo celebrates our 3rd Annual Sankofa Event!

Youth Action Hosts Successful "Save our Children" Forum

Published November 24, 2021

On November 20, Youth Action held a youth-led Q&A with four panelists from the community and the City of Buffalo.

“Save Our Children” town hall coming Nov. 20

Published November 17, 2021

OB Youth Action teams up with Project Mona’s House to address crisis of missing children in Buffalo.

Coming Oct. 2: "Freedom Summer" Leadership & Civic Engagement Symposium!

Published September 24, 2021

Join us on Saturday, October 2 for our first annual "Freedom Summer" Leadership & Civic Engagement Symposium!

Request for Proposals: Racial Equity Training Video Production

Published August 31, 2021

Open Buffalo seeks videography/video editing services for the creation of a short series of racial equity training videos.

My Buffalo Human Rights Law Experience with Open Buffalo: Building the Foundation for Change in Our Community

Published August 20, 2021

Heather Kuhn, a student at UB School of Law, reflects on her recent human rights internship with Open Buffalo.

Want a Freedom Summer Sticker?

Published August 19, 2021

Open Buffalo has declared the Summer of 2021 a Freedom Summer! This Freedom Summer pays homage to the ancestors, organizers, freedom fighters and organizations who created the first Freedom Summer in 1964.

Color Run Was a Fun First for Open Buffalo Youth Action

Published August 2, 2021

The Color Run, hosted by Open Buffalo’s Youth Action on Saturday, July 31, was an engaging, fun-filled event for the community.

Youth Action Recognizes Pride Month

Published June 21, 2021

June is the month to celebrate all the obstacles that were overcome by the LGBTQ+ community and for allies to show their support and acknowledge that our differences are what bring us closer together as people.

Youth Action Team Commemorates Juneteenth 2021

Published June 17, 2021

Let us teach the ignorant the truth and importance of this day, as we walk, shout and rejoice our Independence Day. Fist up!

Press Conference Thursday Will Unveil Buffalo Common Council Resolution in Support of the For the People Act

Published June 9, 2021

Sponsoring Councilmember Ulysees O. Wingo Sr. joins Open Buffalo and other concerned community stakeholders in calling on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to bring critical voting rights legislation for a vote in the U.S. Senate.

Pop Up Cookout/Photo Booth Creates Space for Education and Connection

Published June 4, 2021

Average citizens stopped by Jefferson and Utica to share their experiences and explain how their lives could be changed by the passage of bills like Clean Slate and the For the People Act.

Open Buffalo Seeks "Freedom Summer" Fellow Applicants

Published June 2, 2021

The Open Buffalo Freedom Summer Fellowship is an intensive leadership development program designed to: empower residents in Western New York with knowledge of the history of the original Freedom Summer; register and engage with voters; and work on winning the For the People Act on the national level.

Youth Action Leaders Aim to “Save Our Children”

Published May 10, 2021

On Saturday, May 8, Open Buffalo’s Youth Action (YA) hosted a “Save our Children” Community Town Hall. The YA leaders wanted to raise awareness around the narrative that labels missing children of color as “runaways” and how amber alerts are racialized.

OB Youth Action Speaks Out On Disappearance Of Saniyya Dennis

Published May 6, 2021

Youth leaders call on public officials and community members to do better for missing persons and their families.

"Know Your Rights" Cookout Celebrates Passage of MRTA and Educates Public

Published May 3, 2021

On Saturday, May 1, Open Buffalo hosted a “Know Your Rights” Cookout at Martin Luther King Jr. Park for the community to celebrate the passing of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) and learn what work still needs to be done!

Apply For the 2021 Emerging Leaders Program!

Published April 5, 2021

We are now accepting applications for the 2021 cohort of Open Buffalo Emerging Leaders.

Open Buffalo Proudly Welcomes Passage of MRTA

Published April 1, 2021

Recently Enacted Marijuana Reforms Represent Significant Racial Equity Advancement for the People of New York State.

Open Buffalo Statement on Mass Shootings in Georgia

Published March 19, 2021

In the aftermath of this week's shooting rampage that took eight innocent lives in the Atlanta area -- yet another national tragedy authored by a hate-filled man with a gun -- Open Buffalo mourns and stands in solidarity with all those impacted directly or from afar.

New Community Restoration Project looks to advance justice at state level

Published February 16, 2021

On February 16th, 2021, Open Buffalo along with the Emerging Leaders class of 2020 launched the Community Restoration Project to push for equitable cannabis legalization, "clean slate" criminal justice legislation, and progressive tax reforms.

Justice Fellows Application Now Available

Published January 29, 2021

DEADLINE: Friday, February 5, 2021

Welcome to the application for the Open Buffalo Justice Fellowship Program.

We are delighted that you are interested in being a part of our change-maker family! The Justice Fellowship Program is an intensive leadership development program designed to empower residents in Western New York with the skills and resources required to drive organizations and institutions toward equity, inclusion, and long-term systems change.

STATEMENT FROM OPEN BUFFALO TO N.Y. GOV. CUOMO AND LEGISLATORS: CANNABIS POLICY MUST REINVEST IN COMMUNITIES HISTORICALLY HARMED BY BIASED AND UNJUST ENFORCEMENT

Published January 6, 2021

Buffalo, NY (January 6, 2021) – With New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo having just announced a proposal that would allow recreational cannabis use throughout the state, Open Buffalo once again demands that legalization of this plant be done with racial justice and community repair in mind.

Open Buffalo, Inc. Statement on use of name/phrase 'Open Buffalo'

Published December 12, 2020

Buffalo, NY (December 12, 2020) - Open Buffalo has learned that a group of individuals is planning anti-mask and anti-closure rallies using as an event name and/or slogan the phrase “open buffalo.” The rallies are to protest New York State and Erie County’s COVID-19 guidelines and rules pertaining to citizen protections against the debilitating and deadly disease. 

A Summer Youth Journey into the World of Civics

Published October 5, 2020

Though training, diligence, and teamwork, Open Buffalo youth workers engaged and empowered thousands of people this summer.

Open Buffalo Statement: Police Secrecy Puts Public Safety at Risk

Published September 16, 2020

Open Buffalo proudly joins coalition to defend crucial “50-A” public records reform across NY State.

Open Buffalo Awarded $10,000 by New York Immigration Coalition to Support REMAP NYS 2020

Published July 15, 2020

Buffalo, N.Y. (July 15, 2020) – In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and calls for racial justice throughout the country, Open Buffalo stays on course with its 2020 civic initiatives to increase voter rolls and census participation, particularly for youth and underrepresented populations. 

A Black Woman Defied the Odds

Published June 19, 2020

Juneteenth 2020 - A message from E.D. Franchelle Parker

 

With 10,000-Plus Masks, OB Offers Support And Solidarity

Published May 30, 2020

Open Buffalo Exceeds 10,000 Reusable Masks Distributed with MLK Park Pop-Up Today.

Open Buffalo Statement: BPD Beating Video Inflicts Pain Far and Wide

Published May 13, 2020

Open Buffalo demands transparent investigation and swift police policy reforms in the wake of violent encounter captured on video.

Open Buffalo & Fruit Belt Community Land Trust to Distribute Masks, Food, and Disinfectants to Fruit Belt Community

Published April 30, 2020

Buffalo, N.Y. (April 30, 2020) – Open Buffalo and FB Community Land Trust have teamed up to help already struggling city neighborhoods being further impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis. Protective masks, nutritious food, and home disinfectants are among the products residents will receive.

A Message of Inspiration from Franchelle

Published March 26, 2020

I recently stumbled across a clip online of doctors from Cuba arriving in Italy, ground zero of the global pandemic right now, to help. I breathed a sigh of relief that help was on the way for the people of Italy and it gave me a sense of hope during these very challenging times. Humanity is stepping up in magnificent ways. Healthcare workers are teaching us all what it means to be brave — from the receptionist, to maintenance to administration.

Census 2020: Stand Up And Be Counted

Published March 10, 2020

Full participation in this year’s Census will support vital quality-of-life services for you and your neighbors.

Emerging Leaders 2020, Unlock Your Change-Making Potential

Published March 10, 2020

Open Buffalo cultivates leaders to create an equitable and sustainable society where justice triumphs over exploitation.

In a Word, Life Changing

Published March 10, 2020

An Emerging Leaders Alumni Spotlight with Tanvier Peart, Class of 2017

What is YOUR work rooted In?

Published March 10, 2020

In her March 2019 message to the community, Open Buffalo Executive Director Franchelle Parker challenges readers to evaluate what principles drive them to be resilient change-makers.

Emerging Leaders 2020 - Application now available

Published February 4, 2020

Have you been waiting for Open Buffalo's next Emerging Leaders program?  Now is your chance.  

A Relaunch Success - Sankofa Celebration 2020

Published January 19, 2020

On Thursday, January 9, members of the community joined Open Buffalo staff and board members for a Sankofa Celebration. Sankofa is a word from the Akan tribe in Ghana that refers to reflecting on the past period in order to look ahead and advance to the future. 

 

Open Buffalo Statement on Yet Another Religious-based Hate Crime

Published December 30, 2019

In the last days celebrating Hanukkah, we were saddened and heartbroken to learn of yet another hate crime in our country, this time at the New York City area home of a Rabbi while celebrating the seventh night of Hanukkah with dozens of guests. 

Massachusetts Avenue Project Seeks Youth Education Director

Published December 9, 2019

The Massachusetts Avenue Project is hiring a full-time Youth Education Director. The Director will work with a diverse population  in sustainable food production and marketing. Apply by Jan.1, 2020.

Should We Commemorate Thanksgiving?

Published November 28, 2019

There's a duality about Thanksgiving that's deeper than excess vs. hunger or being 'a part of' vs. 'apart from'. Knowing its history, should we celebrate Thanksgiving or should we commemorate it?

Fight Poverty, Build Leadership Skills as a VISTA at OB

Published November 4, 2019

Do you want to help end poverty in Buffalo? Develop valuable nonprofit skills and experiences? Give back to the community? If so, consider applying for Open Buffalo's NYIC VISTA position today!

It All Starts with You -- Join Youth Action!

Published November 1, 2019

Join this expansive movement to build opportunities, break down obstacles, and create a better you!

MSAAHC Seeks Executive Director

Published November 1, 2019

As part of Buffalo’s renaissance the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor features a host of landmarks in local and national black history.

FB Community Land Trust Awarded $800K Grant; Will Allocate Five Homes

Published October 31, 2019

The FB Community Land Trust will buy five properties to transition low- and middle-income families into first-time homeowners.