August 2, 2022

OPEN BUFFALO'S 2ND ANNUAL COLOR RUN A SUCCESS

Fun was had by all at the annual event.

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June 29, 2022

OPEN BUFFALO IS HONORED TO BE SELECTED FOR THE 2022 JUSTICE40 ACCELERATOR COHORT

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June 15, 2022

ONE MONTH LATER: RECOVERY, RESOURCES, AND RESOLVE

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.

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May 18, 2022

OPEN BUFFALO STATEMENT ON THE BUFFALO MASSACRE

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

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April 5, 2022

OPEN BUFFALO CELEBRATES SANKOFA 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. Learn More

November 24, 2021

YOUTH ACTION HOSTS SUCCESSFUL "SAVE OUR CHILDREN" FORUM

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

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August 2, 2021

COLOR RUN WAS A FUN FIRST FOR OPEN BUFFALO YOUTH ACTION

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

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June 9, 2021

PRESS CONFERENCE THURSDAY WILL UNVEIL BUFFALO COMMON COUNCIL RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE FOR THE PEOPLE ACT

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.

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May 10, 2021

YOUTH ACTION LEADERS AIM TO “SAVE OUR CHILDREN”

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.

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May 1, 2021

"KNOW YOUR RIGHTS" COOKOUT CELEBRATES PASSAGE OF MRTA AND EDUCATES PUBLIC

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!

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April 1, 2021

OPEN BUFFALO PROUDLY WELCOMES PASSAGE OF MRTA

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

October 5, 2020

A SUMMER YOUTH JOURNEY INTO THE WORLD OF CIVICS

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

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May 30, 2020

WITH 10,000-PLUS MASKS, OB OFFERS SUPPORT AND SOLIDARITY

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

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June 19, 2020

A BLACK WOMAN DEFIED THE ODDS

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

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April 30, 2020

OPEN BUFFALO & FRUIT BELT COMMUNITY LAND TRUST TO DISTRIBUTE MASKS, FOOD, AND DISINFECTANTS TO FRUIT BELT COMMUNITY

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.

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March 26, 2020

A MESSAGE OF INSPIRATION FROM FRANCHELLE

While it is speculated that we haven’t seen the worst of COVID-19, I am confident we haven’t seen the best of what our community will do during these times. 

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March 10, 2020

CENSUS 2020: STAND UP AND BE COUNTED

Be prepared for April 1, 2020

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January 19, 2020

A RELAUNCH SUCCESS - SANKOFA CELEBRATION 2020

The event marked an important transition point for the organization that was established in 2014.

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January 6, 2020

OPEN BUFFALO TO MARK FIVE-YEAR MILESTONE BY LAUNCHING NEW STRATEGY, MISSION, AND FOCUS AT SANKOFA-INSPIRED CELEBRATION & FUNDRAISER

After five years of social justice advancement in Buffalo, Open Buffalo is poised to take itself to a new level by launching a new three-year strategic plan, a new mission, and a new vision to advance racial, economic, and ecological justice. 

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October 8, 2019

OB ADVANCING VOTER EDUCATION AND ACCESS WITH NEW INITIATIVE

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.

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September 30, 2019

OPEN BUFFALO REPRESENTS AT ALLIANCE FOR CLEAN ENERGY NEW YORK'S CONFERENCE

Open Buffalo was invited to join the conference. 

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September 20, 2019

JUSTICE LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE EQUIPS LEADERS WITH HOPE AND TOOLS TO BECOME CHANGEMAKERS

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

July 9, 2019

JUST RELEASED: 420 COMMUNITY VIDEO!

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

July 1, 2019

2019 Legislative Victories: Marijuana Decriminalization and CLCPA

Open Buffalo celebrates the passage of new state laws to advance marijuana decriminalization and climate protections, the central campaigns of the organization’s 2019 legislative platform. As a regional movement leader for Western New York, Open Buffalo has invested in community education and coalition-building on statewide advocacy issues to advance its core work for racial, economic, and ecological justice.

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May 23, 2019

MOVEMENT MORNING 2019: WHERE WE'VE BEEN, WHAT COMES NEXT

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. Learn More

February 15, 2019

OB Justice & Opportunity Celebrates the Success of the #BuffaloLLEP Campaign!

Open Buffalo applauds Mayor Byron Brown’s announcement that he will direct the BPD to de-prioritize low-level marijuana possession enforcement, a policy shift championed through the Open Buffalo Justice & Opportunity Coalition’s #BuffaloLLEP campaign (November 2017 through February 2019).

The mayor’s new stance reflects the #BuffaloLLEP mobilization for reform in community forums and petitions from local residents, original action-oriented research, and direct discussions with city policy-makers.

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December 18, 2018

A MOMENT TO CELEBRATE: 2018 EMERGING LEADERS AND DEMOCRACY FELLOWS GRADUATE

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.

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December 8, 2018

Open Buffalo Graduates 100th Emerging Leader and First Democracy Fellows

On Saturday, December 8, 2018, Open Buffalo honored 35 outstanding individuals who successfully graduated as Emerging Leaders and Democracy Fellows. With more than 175 friends, relatives, and allies in attendance, Open Buffalo’s 2018 Graduation Day highlighted both cohorts as changemakers who will inspire, organize, and innovate for the future of their communities. This year’s gathering also marked two incredible milestones for Open Buffalo’s Leadership Development division as a whole: the graduation of our 100th Emerging Leader and first class of Democracy Fellows.

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October 11, 2018

CLIMBING POETREE: LIVE IN BUFFALO INVOKES THE POWER OF ART FOR ACTIVISM

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

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August 28, 2018

2018 EMERGING LEADERS CLASS KICKS OFF WITH INTENSIVE RETREAT

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. Learn More

August 25, 2018

New Beginnings on Jefferson Avenue

Have you heard? Open Buffalo has officially moved! We are starting a new chapter in the historic Jefferson Avenue corridor. Our new headquarters is 1327 Jefferson Ave., Upper, Buffalo, NY.

Come and see us.

July 2018

Muhammad Z. Zuman Chosen as the 2018 Open Buffalo Emerging Artist

Open Buffalo's Emerging Artist Series uplifts underrepresented artists and communities in our city and increases public access to the arts. Muhammad Zaman, an urban artist specializing in calligraphy, opens his exhibition “Lux” through the series, centering on his experience as a Muslim man living and working in the United States. His canvas paintings utilize his three languages of Arabic, Bengali, and English to explore identity and inspire cross-cultural understanding.

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May 16, 2018

“MOVEMENT MORNING” A LANDMARK OCCASION FOR OB

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

March 8, 2018

OB Justice & Opportunity Successfully Advocates for First Community-led Police Advisory Board

Through sustained advocacy, Open Buffalo and partners move the Buffalo Common Council to create the first community-led Police Advisory Board.

Dr. Danielle Johnson of Open Buffalo’s Justice & Opportunity Coalition is named to the new 11-member body, made up of Buffalo city residents.

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February 9, 2018

OB Justice & Opportunity Welcome Disbandment of BPD's Strikeforce

OB Justice & Opportunity partners commend this important step towards police accountability, a policy recommendation of our 2016 report with PPG and advocacy work with many community organizations. The Buffalo Police Department ‘Strike Force’ has been responsible for many complaints of police misconduct and illegal action, including unnecessary or excessive use of force, unconstitutional traffic checkpoints, and more. Justice & Opportunity partners reiterate the need for full-scale community policing reform in Buffalo.

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January 28, 2018

OPEN BUFFALO APPLAUDS CITY OF BUFFALO’S COMMITMENT OF PROPERTIES TO THE F.B. COMMUNITY LAND TRUST

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

December 16, 2017

2017 EMERGING LEADERS HONORED BEFORE FAMILY & FRIENDS

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

October 24, 2017

NATIONAL SCHOLAR DR. MARC LAMONT HILL TO ENGAGE HUNDREDS IN BUFFALO THIS THURSDAY

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

September 1, 2017

THE 2017 EMERGING LEADERS REFLECT ON OPENING WEEKEND

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. Learn More

July 22, 2017

"POETIC JUSTICE: CREATIVE SPACE" KICKS OFF JUSTICE & OPPORTUNITY SERIES

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. Learn More

June 2, 2017

EMERGING ARTIST SERIES KICKS OFF WITH JULIA DOUGLAS' "TINTED"

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.” Learn More

May 8, 2017

RELEASED TODAY: HEALTH EQUITY AND THE PATH TO INCLUSIVE PROSPERITY IN BUFFALO

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

February 8, 2017

AFTER POLICING DEATH, COMMUNITY DEMANDS INFORMATION, TRANSPARENT INVESTIGATION, AND POLICY REFORM

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. Learn More

December 5, 2016

INSPIRATION & ENLIGHTENMENT WITH CLIMBING POETREE

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

November 18, 2016

NEW REPORT URGES BUFFALO POLICING REFORMS

Calls for Collaboration, Communication, and Community-Building Learn More

October 26, 2016

COMING TOGETHER TO PROMOTE PEACE

"Now we can gather at the Ray of Light Mural site and in the spaces of the Buffalo Arts Studio to provide Peace and Healing Circles to the community." Learn More

November 12, 2016

VISIONS SHOWCASES COMMUNITY WORK, SUPPORTS EMERGING LEADERS

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

October 4, 2016

EMERGING LEADERS 2016 KICKS OFF!

Open Buffalo kicked off the 2016 session of Emerging Leaders on Friday, Sept. 9, officially marking the 2nd year of the program. Learn More

July 25, 2016

FIRST JUSTICE & OPPORTUNITY WEEK WRAPS UP

Between July 18 and 22, Open Buffalo held its first “Justice and Opportunity Week” — five days of free community discussions, performances, and workshops throughout the city of Buffalo. Learn More

June 22, 2016

“LAND TRUST, NOT LAND RUSH” PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON 200-PLUS VACANT LOTS IN FRUIT BELT

At Press Event/Community Cookout, Allied Groups Outline Proposal for Community Control and Revitalization of Hundreds of Vacant Lots in the Historic Fruit Belt Neighborhood. Learn More

June 10, 2016

FRIENDS, ALLIES CONVENE FOR OB OPEN HOUSE

The open house marked the opening of our new space and was an opportunity to welcome the new additions to our staff. Learn More

March 17, 2016

“CROSSROADS COLLECTIVE” SET TO CREATE A NEW ECONOMY ON FRONTLINES OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Collective's kickoff effort is a campaign to pass NY Renews climate justice reforms in Albany. Learn More

February 25, 2016

COMMUNITY POLICING SURVEY HITS THE STREETS OF BUFFALO

Survey kickoff gathering was packed with energized residents, ready to make changes in our city. Learn More

December 16, 2015

“MIND THE GAP” PRESS CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS NEED TO BATTLE PAY DISCRIMINATION

Taxpayers, advocates declare support for enforcement of new Pay Equity Policy before ECIDA Board meeting. Learn More

December 16, 2015

POWERFUL & DIVERSE NEW CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES TO PUSH NEW YORK STATE TO LEAD ON CLIMATE

“NY Renews” campaign for good jobs, healthy communities, and 100% clean energy launches with support from over 40 community, labor, and environmental groups. Learn More

December 12, 2015

FIRST-EVER OPEN BUFFALO EMERGING LEADERS HONORED SATURDAY

Community-builders from all sides of Buffalo made up leadership development program’s inaugural class. Learn More

September 14, 2015

OB EMERGING LEADERS OFF AND RUNNING!

Participants learned how to build campaigns for positive social change from the ground up, using their heads, hearts, and hands. Learn More

July 28, 2015

OPEN BUFFALO REPORTS SUCCESSES AND PRIORITIES

Allied grassroots activists converged on Massachusetts Avenue Park Tuesday morning for a press conference and community cookout. Learn More

July 14, 2015

PEACE CIRCLES UNDERWAY IN THE ERIE COUNTY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

Karima Amin, Founder/Director of Prisoners Are People Too, Inc., reports Restorative Justice progress in  the Alden correctional facility. Learn More

June 18, 2015

OPEN BUFFALO COALITION CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE PASSAGE OF FRUIT BELT PARKING LEGISLATION

Coalition of residents, community groups, and labor allies calls for immediate passage of Fruit Belt parking legislation (A.7574-A / S.5306-A) Learn More

June 16, 2015

OPEN BUFFALO CELEBRATES JUNETEENTH

Beautiful weather and jubilant crowds lining Genesee Street made for a memorable Juneteenth of Buffalo 2015 Parade last Saturday. Learn More

May 18, 2015

BRUTAL TRUTH FROM NICOLE LEE

On May 14, Nicole Lee, world-renowned human rights lawyer, returned to her hometown to give a talk at Greater Works Christian Fellowship. Learn More

May 5, 2015

A MONUMENTAL PRESENTATION IN THE FRUIT BELT

Fruit Belt residents have drafted elements of a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) that would enable long-term neighborhood residents to benefit from economic development, and prevent displacement. Learn More

March 4, 2015

ANCHOR INSTITUTIONS AND THE NEW ECONOMY IN BUFFALO

It is more vital than ever to have community and business aligned so that we might begin to erase the social and economic divides that have defined our city for far too long. Learn More

December 12, 2014

BUFFALO FAST-FOOD WORKERS GO ON STRIKE, JOIN NATIONAL "FIGHT FOR $15" MOVEMENT

Buffalo fast-food workers went on strike for the first time, joining the "Fight for $15" movement. Learn More

December 5, 2014

ORGANIZING POWERS UNLEASHED

Open Buffalo's rigorous Leading Change workshop weekend led social justice-minded crowd to breakthroughs and connections. Learn More

January 16, 2014

OPEN BUFFALO A WINNER

Open Society Foundations announces Buffalo is one of three sites selected for funding in the Open Places Initiative. Learn More

November 12, 2013

OPEN BUFFALO RELEASES REPORT ON DISPARATE NUMBER OF MINORITIES IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM

Open Buffalo releases a new report, Alarming Disparities: The Disproportionate Number of African American and Hispanic People in Erie County Criminal Justice System. Learn More

October 16, 2013

NEW REPORT ON A HIGH ROAD STRATEGY TO MAXIMIZE THE COMMUNITY’S BENEFIT AT THE BUFFALO NIAGARA MEDICAL CAMPUS

Open Buffalo releases a new report, The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus: A High Road Strategy to Maximize the Community’s Benefit. Learn More