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The Living Memorial
A space designed to honor the past while actively serving the community through healing, education, and connection.
PURPOSE & VISION
Architecture as Witness
The 5/14 Living Memorial and Healing Center is being created to honor the lives lost on May 14 and support the community moving forward. It is a public space in Buffalo’s East Side, open to everyone, including residents, families of victims, survivors, students, and visitors. The memorial is a place to remember the victims, learn about what happened, and reflect on the history of racial inequality and long-term neglect in the area. It will also host guided visits, education programs, community events, and healing activities, so it works both as a memorial and as an active community space.
At the center of the memorial is a design called “Seeing Us.” It is built in two parts: the Memorial Walk and the Memorial Field. The Memorial Walk leads visitors through the site, with paths, seating, and places to pause and reflect. The Memorial Field has 10 connected stone pillars for the people who were killed, plus one pillar for survivors. The pillars are different in height and shape, but come together as one form to show both individual lives and shared strength. Names and stories are carved into dark granite. The site also includes spaces for exhibitions, learning, and community activities.
A key part of the design is light and shadow. As the sun moves, the shadows of the pillars change and shape the experience of the space. Visitors can also see their own reflections and silhouettes within the memorial, creating a personal moment of connection and reminding them that they are part of a shared story and future.
FOUNDATIONAL MISSION
The Four Pillars of Healing
Remember. Reflect.
Stay Involved.
Get updates on remembrance events, community progress, and ways to support as we continue forward together.
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