Reflecting on Horrific Events of May 14 and Standing Against Evils of Society

Dear Buffalo State Community,

May 14, 2022, is a date that has left an indelible impact on our community and our hearts. As we commemorate the second anniversary of the brutal massacre at the Tops Friendly Market on Buffalo’s East Side, I want to take time to remember the three individuals who were injured and 10 brave souls whose lives were taken because of hate and white supremacy. Aaron Salter Jr., Celestine Chaney, Roberta A. Drury, Andre Mackniel, Katherine Massey, Margus D. Morrison, Heyward Patterson, Geraldine Talley, Ruth Whitfield, and Pearl Young were all active members of this tight-knit community whose lives were taken too soon by someone perpetrating hate.

Today, we honor these individuals, but we should also take this time to reflect and ask ourselves, what are we doing to fight against white supremacy and hatred? At Buffalo State, we are committed to teaching students to stand against these evils of society, and take positive actions to change their neighborhoods, systems, and eventually the world.

As author Audre Lorde stated, “In our work and in our living, we must recognize that difference is a reason for celebration and growth, rather than a reason for destruction.”

Let’s keep growing, learning, and celebrating our diversity while never forgetting the horrific events of May 14.

Sincerely,

Bonita R. Durand, Ph.D.
Interim President
Buffalo State University