Congratulations to this year’s Black History Month Award Recipients
As part of Buffalo’s Black History Month festivities, Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon recognized local African Americans who have made significant contributions to the Buffalo community. The awards ceremony took place in the lobby of Buffalo City Hall, celebrating excellence in multiple categories, including Arts, Business, Community Preservation, Community Service, Education, Faith, Family, Health & Wellness, Law, and Youth.
“Congratulations to this year’s Black History Month Award recipients, who represent the best of Buffalo!” said Mayor Scanlon. “It’s a deep honor to recognize the past and present contributions African American residents have made throughout our city’s history. Our community has been shaped by countless African American leaders who have, and continue, to fight for equity and inclusion. This month’s honorees are no exception. They continue to play an important role in our city’s history, and I thank them for working to ensure every person feels seen, valued, and included.”
Mayor Scanlon further encouraged residents to support Black-owned businesses, highlighting the nearly 30 Black retail vendors hosting pop-ups every Saturday at the Broadway Market. “Today, I ask all residents to celebrate Black History Month year-round by supporting our great Black-owned businesses and restaurants in Buffalo.”
At the February 7th event, Mayor Scanlon recognized the following awardees:
Arts: Janate Solar Ingram, also known as "The Community’s Daughter"
Business Award: The Buffalo Criterion
Community Preservation Award: The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor
Community Service Award: Monarch of Infinite Possibilities
Education Award: Steve Stoute, Canisius University President
Faith-Based Award: Elim Christian Ministries Bishop Troy Anthony Bronner
Family Award: The Pridgen Family
Health & Wellness Award: The Body of Wealth
Law: Judge Craig D. Hannah
Youth Award: Jason Rowe, Bishop Timon-St. Jude Athletic Director and Head Football Coach
The City Hall celebration featured performances by Reverend Dr. James A. Lewis III, Apostle Dr. Garney Davis Jr., award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and photographer Aitina Fareed-Cooke, the AACC Dance and Drum Performance Company, Hutch Tech JROTC, and saxophonist Will Holton.
Mayor Scanlon also reminded residents to support the “Black History Month at the Broadway Market” celebration. Every Saturday throughout February, nearly 30 Black retail vendors will be on-site at the historic Broadway Market, located at 999 Broadway, showcasing unique products from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For a complete list of participating vendors, visit BroadwayMarket.org.