A permanent memorial is being constructed in Buffalo, New York to honor the 10 Black victims of a racist mass shooting that occurred at a supermarket two years earlier. The design, titled “Seeing Us,” features interconnected stone pillars and arches, as well as a windowed building for exhibitions and events. Selected from 20 submissions to the 5/14 Memorial Commission, the design has received funding from New York state, the city of Buffalo, and a fundraising campaign to cover the $15 million project cost. Governor Kathy Hochul spoke at the design unveiling, emphasizing the importance of supporting the East Buffalo community and remembering those who were lost.
The shooting, which took place on May 14, 2022, resulted in the deaths of nine shoppers and a retired Buffalo police officer, as well as injuries to three store employees. The gunman, Payton Gendron, was sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty to state charges of murder and hate-motivated domestic terrorism. He is awaiting trial on federal charges, which could potentially lead to the death penalty if convicted. The 5/14 Memorial Commission, led by Rev. Mark Blue, worked closely with the victims’ families in the selection process of the memorial design to ensure it was a fitting tribute to those affected by the tragedy.
On the second anniversary of the shooting, Tops Friendly Markets, where the attack took place, will dedicate a separate memorial near the store and observe a moment of silence at 2:28 p.m., the time of the attack. Buffalo artist Valeria Cray and her son Hiram Cray have created a sculpture called “Unity for the Honor Space” for the memorial, which also includes 10 granite bollards. The goal of these memorials and events is to provide a space for reflection, healing, and remembrance for the community and the families of the victims.
The design of the memorial, “Seeing Us,” aims to create a sense of unity and remembrance for the victims of the tragic shooting in Buffalo. The interconnected stone pillars and arches symbolize strength and support, while the windowed building will serve as a space for exhibitions and events to honor the memory of those who lost their lives. The funding for the project, which includes contributions from New York state, the city of Buffalo, and a fundraising campaign, reflects the commitment to creating a lasting tribute that celebrates the lives of those affected by the tragedy.
Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her support for the East Buffalo community and the importance of remembering the victims of the shooting as the memorial design was unveiled. Rev. Mark Blue, chairman of the 5/14 Memorial Commission, emphasized the need for a memorial that the families and communities can be proud of, ensuring that the design selection process involved consultation with those most affected by the tragedy. The memorial will provide a space for healing and reflection, as well as honoring the memory of the 10 Black victims who lost their lives in the senseless act of violence and hate.
As the community in Buffalo prepares to mark the second anniversary of the shooting, events and memorials are being planned to honor the victims and support those who were affected by the tragedy. The dedication of a memorial near the supermarket where the attack took place, as well as the unveiling of the “Unity for the Honor Space” sculpture and granite bollards, are all part of the efforts to create a lasting tribute that acknowledges the impact of the shooting on the community. The moment of silence and commemoration organized by Tops Friendly Markets will provide an opportunity for remembrance and reflection on the lives lost that day in May.
