New York State and Buffalo city leaders have announced a major milestone in the creation of a permanent memorial honoring the victims and survivors of the May 14, 2022, racially motivated mass shooting at the Tops Friendly Markets on Jefferson Avenue.
Governor Kathy Hochul, Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon, and the 5/14 Memorial Commission confirmed the acquisition of all 18 parcels needed for the memorial site. The announcement comes just days before the third anniversary of the tragedy, which claimed the lives of 10 Black residents and left lasting scars across the East Side community.
“Today marks a profound and pivotal moment in our shared journey toward healing,” said Hochul. “The 5/14 Memorial will stand as a powerful symbol of remembrance and justice.”
Unified site for “Seeing Us” memorial secured
The City of Buffalo completed the transfer of 14 city-owned lots to the 5/14 Memorial Foundation Inc. The remaining four parcels were either sold or donated by private owners. The unified site, located at Jefferson Avenue and Best Street, will host a memorial titled “Seeing Us”, designed through a public process and unveiled in 2024.
The memorial design includes:
- Ten interconnected stone pillars, each engraved with the names of victims and survivors.
- A central building for community events and education.
- An elevated Memorial Walk above the hub.
$15 million project enters next phase
The site control allows the Foundation to begin detailed design, engineering, permitting, and fundraising phases. The memorial is projected to cost $15 million, with $5 million committed by the state and $1 million pledged by the city. A public fundraising campaign is now underway to raise the remaining funds.
A collective step toward healing
Local officials and community leaders emphasized the importance of building a space that preserves the memory of those lost while offering a place of reflection and education.
“This isn’t just about transferring property — it’s about honoring lives and a community’s strength,” said Mayor Scanlon.
“The East Side of Buffalo matters,” said Councilmember Leah Halton-Pope. “The legacy of those ten beautiful souls will be etched into our city’s conscience.”
The 5/14 Memorial Commission, formed in October 2022, includes family members of victims, survivors, faith leaders, and elected officials.
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