“What we are taught as history is actually memory.”

- Nikole Hannah-Jones

Urban Forum 2024: Black Excellence Encore was not just a professional development event for Buffalo Public Schools. We came together to create memories and history to support our whole community in an effort towards equity. Our scholars informed us about the power of counter narratives, civil rights for marginalized groups, and the inspirational stories of women of color.

Solana Booth, a Pacific NW Traditional Medicine Keeper, reminded us that all learners are sacred through healing practice that valued the emotional space of educators. Our presenters unapologetically honored Black history through its global cultural impacts, literary influence, and musical ascendancy. The Buffalo Public Schools Science Department expertly revealed what culturally responsive teaching looks like in science classrooms and our Family and Community Engagement Department lead authentic, connective, conversations with participants.

We learned about Stonewall as a significant piece of Black LGBT+ history. We tasted Soul Food and grew to understand its origins. We revered head coverings from various cultural backgrounds, especially hair braiding in the African American community. We supported Black and Brown business owners in our marketplace.

Most importantly we came together as scholars, teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, and stakeholders to author our own history. This was not just an encore, this event represented a continuation of the 1619 Project written by our keynote speaker, Nikole Hannah-Jones and a continuation of our story as a district.

BUFFALO

CLRI Professional Development

Disproportionality

Urban Forum

Guardian of Equity