It has been almost a year since the May 14 shooting that killed 10 people at a Tops on Buffalo’s East Side.
The city of Buffalo has put together several events to remember the victims of the mass shooting as a part of what the city has named “5/14 Remembrance Weekend of Reflection, Healing & Hope.”
In December, Mayor Byron Brown announced the creation of a 5/14 Remembrance Committee to bring about community healing and remember the victims of the shooting.
“As the first anniversary of the tragic May 14 mass shooting approaches, we remember the innocent lives taken on that unfathomable day,” co-chair of the 5/14 Remembrance Committee Dr. Michael Edbauer said in a press release. “We are also reminded of the trauma that still exists in our community.”
Beyond Hate: A Panel Discussion
Friday, May 12 from 9 a.m. to noon at Roswell Park Comprehensive Center
Open to the public, this event will be held in the first-floor conference room of Roswell Park.
Melissa Harris-Perry, host of National Public Radio’s “The Takeaway,” will moderate the event. Imbari Kendi, a New York Times best-selling author and director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research, will serve as the speaker. Panelists include Brown, SUNY Chancellor John King, Spelman College President Helene Gayle and Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry.
Seats are limited. Those interested in attending can register on Eventbrite.
Educational Day of Healing & Restoration
Friday, May 12 at 9 a.m. at Buffalo Toronto Public Media
With a focus on school-age students, this event will consist of book readings, a virtual healing circle and guest speakers who will deliver “uplifting” messages. The event is organized by Buffalo Public School District, Erie 1 Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) and Buffalo Toronto Public Media. There will also be a live stream.
Community Gathering for Reflection, Healing and Hope
Saturday, May 13 from noon to 4 p.m. at Johnnie B. Wiley Amateur Athletic Sports Pavilion
This event will consist of prayer, healing-related activities, community resources, expressionists, food and vendors.
Moment of Remembrance
Sunday, May 14 from 2-2:30 p.m. at Tops Friendly Market on 1275 Jefferson Ave.
The moment of remembrance will be led by Brown. Church bells will ring at 2:28 p.m. — the time the shooting commenced.
Memorial Service for Healing and Hope
Sunday, May 14 at 6 p.m. at Elim Christian Fellowship
The worship service will be led by Jamal Bryant, pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church.
A.J. Franklin is an assistant features editor and can be reached at aj.franklin@ubspectrum.com.
