The Soul Ball Awards Program
The annual Soul Ball, hosted by the African American Heritage Corridor, was held on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Buffalo Marriott Lecom Harborcenter Hotel. Several members of our community were honored for their significant contributions to our city.
Mr. Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Heritage Corridor, and the commission deserve special thanks for organizing this remarkable event and for including me among the honorees. I extend heartfelt gratitude to Audrey Clark, Program Manager, for keeping me informed about the event.
It was an inspiring program, well attended by community members and leaders from various sectors of our city. Guests enjoyed delicious food, engaging conversations, and a delightful selection of jazz and popular music performed by exceptionally talented musicians.
The list of award winners included the following: Rising Leader Award – Rachel Henderson Legacy Award – Dorothy Hill Community Pillar Award – Dr. Eva M. Doyle Chairman’s Award – New York State Majority Leader, The Honorable Crystal Peoples Stokes.
The African American Heritage Corridor encompasses historic landmarks such as the Nash House, the Colored Musicians Club and Museum, the Michigan Avenue Baptist Church, and WUFO Radio and Museum Collective. The Corridor stands as the epicenter of pivotal movements in history, including the abolitionist movement, school desegregation, the civil rights movement, and the jazz age. Visitors can truly feel the presence of history's giants in these spaces.
This is a place for everyone in the city to come and learn about the profound contributions of African Americans to both our city and nation.
For more information about upcoming events and programs, visit the Corridor's website at http://www.michiganstreetbuffal o.org. Here, you can also discover ways to get involved.
The African American Heritage Corridor is one of Buffalo's most significant cultural treasures.
Congratulations to all the honorees on their well-deserved recognition. It was a wonderful evening. Truly, A Good Time Was Had By All!