Black Heritage Rochester

10/05/2026

We are truly honored and humbled to have the Black Heritage Committee recognized by Mayor Malik D. Evans and the City of Rochester during the City’s Employee Recognition Ceremony.

Our work is about more than hosting events. It is about celebrating African American culture, honoring our history and heritage, and keeping the legacy of those who came before us alive for future generations.

We are grateful for this recognition and especially thankful for every committee member, past and present, who has given their time, creativity, and dedication to this work.

A special thank you to Mayor Evans, City Council President Miguel Meléndez, and the City of Rochester for recognizing and supporting our efforts.

We are proud to continue celebrating our culture, sharing our history, and honoring our legacy.

Hazel Washington, Chair
Jermayne Myers, Co-Chair
Geron Harris, Co-Chair

Heritage Rochester

08/28/2026

In Loving Remembrance of Dr. David A. “Sankofa” Anderson

The City of Rochester’s Black Heritage Committee honors and remembers the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Dr. David A. “Sankofa” Anderson—a beloved educator, historian, griot, mentor, and guardian of Black history whose impact continues to be felt throughout Rochester and beyond.

Dr. Anderson dedicated his life to ensuring that the stories, struggles, sacrifices, resilience, and triumphs of African Americans were never forgotten. He understood that Black history is more than something we study—it is something we must preserve, celebrate, teach, and pass forward. Through his scholarship, storytelling, mentorship, and community advocacy, he inspired generations to know their history, take pride in their heritage, and understand the responsibility we all share in carrying that history forward.

The name “Sankofa” beautifully reflected the work he devoted his life to—the belief that we must reach back and recover the wisdom of our past in order to move forward. Although his physical presence is deeply missed, his lessons remain, his influence continues, and his legacy lives on in every person he taught, every story he preserved, and every life he touched.

The City of Rochester’s Black Heritage Committee extends our continued love and heartfelt sympathy to Dr. Anderson’s family, loved ones, friends, students, colleagues, and all who were blessed to know and learn from him.

Thank you, Dr. Anderson, for teaching us, preserving our stories, honoring those who came before us, and reminding us of our responsibility to those who will come after us. Rochester is richer because you walked among us.

May his memory forever be a blessing, his teachings remain a beacon, and his legacy inspire generations to come.

Rest well, Dr. David A. “Sankofa” Anderson.
Your lessons remain. Your legacy endures. Your work lives on.

With love, gratitude, honor, and remembrance,
The City of Rochester’s Black Heritage Committee

06/19/2026

Happy Juneteenth, Rochester!

On behalf of the City of Rochester Black Heritage Committee, we extend our warmest wishes for a meaningful and joyful Juneteenth.

Today, we celebrate freedom and honor the incredible legacy of resilience, strength, and determination demonstrated by generations of African Americans. We recognize their sacrifices, achievements, and enduring contributions to our communities and our nation.

As we commemorate this historic day, we also reflect on the continuing journey toward equality, justice, and opportunity for all. We encourage everyone to take time to learn, celebrate, and connect with family, friends, and community.

Wishing you a safe, memorable, and uplifting Juneteenth weekend!

04/13/2026

On behalf of the Black Heritage Committee, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the Black Heritage Gala. Your presence, energy, and support made the evening truly meaningful and a celebration to remember.

Congratulations to all of our honorees—your dedication, excellence, and impact in our community continue to inspire us all. This night was a reflection of your hard work and commitment.

I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to the members of the Black Heritage Committee for your tireless efforts in planning and executing such a phenomenal event. Your passion, teamwork, and commitment brought this vision to life.

We are sincerely grateful to Mayor Malik Evans and the Rochester City Council for your continued support and partnership in uplifting our community.

Together, we celebrate legacy, excellence, and unity. Thank you all for being a part of this unforgettable evening.

— Hazel Washington
Chair, Black Heritage Committee

@topfansBlack Heritage Rochester

04/11/2026

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Black Heritage Gala tonight! ✨

Doors open at 5:30 PM and the program begins at 6:30 PM.

Let’s celebrate together!

@topfansBlack Heritage Rochester

04/02/2026

The 2026 Black Heritage Gala is Officially SOLD OUT!

Thank you to everyone for your continued support. We look forward to celebrating with you.

@topfansBlack Heritage Rochester

03/24/2026

Join Mayor Malik Evans and the City of Rochester’s Black Heritage Committee in celebrating Black Heritage!

You are cordially invited to attend the Annual Black Heritage Gala on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center.

Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Program Starts: 6:30 PM

This special evening will honor the remarkable contributions of Rochester's African American community, highlighting the achievements, leadership, and lasting legacy of our local community leaders. As 2026 marks 100 years of national commemorations of Black history, we will come together to celebrate, uplift, and preserve the rich culture and heritage that continues to shape our city and beyond.

🎟 Tickets are on sale and available now!
Tickets: $115 per person

Purchase Tickets:
Online: Eventbrite
In Person: City Hall, Room 100A
(Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM)

Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of celebration, reflection, and community. Please share this invitation with your friends and family.

For more information, call 585-428-9857 or email [email protected]

@topfansBlack Heritage RochesterAKOMA Rochester's African American Women's Gospel ChoirVoices Of Thunder@

03/04/2026

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Rochester Black Heritage Committee honored ten influential local Black women at City Hall on Tuesday night. The event celebrated their efforts in breaking boundaries and helping their communities thrive.Organizers emphasized the importance of such events to ensure the contrib...

02/28/2026

Last evening, we gathered at City Hall for a powerful and inspiring Black History Month Panel Discussion commemorating 100 years of Black History celebrations.

Thank you to everyone who attended, engaged in the conversation, and helped make the evening impactful. Your presence, your voices, and your continued commitment to preserving, protecting, and advancing Black history truly matter.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Mayor Malik Evans for his continued support and leadership. We are also grateful to the Panel Discussion Sub-Committee for their thoughtful planning and coordination, and to the Black Heritage Committee for their unwavering support in making this event possible.

A special thank you to our distinguished panelists for sharing their insight, wisdom, and lived experiences: Wade Norwood, Tae’lor Jackson, Student Minister Kenneth Muhammad, and Dr. Shetara Bouie, MPA, Ed.D.

As we commemorate 100 years of honoring Black history, we remain committed to ensuring that our history is not only remembered, but actively celebrated and carried forward for generations to come.

@topfansBlack Heritage Rochester

02/27/2026

Last night, we were honored to host a meaningful panel discussion celebrating 100 years of Black History commemorations, reflecting on our past, examining our present, and envisioning our future.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, engaged in the conversation, and helped make the evening impactful. Your presence, voices, and continued commitment to preserving, protecting, and advancing Black history truly matter.

The Black Heritage Committee gathered at Rochester City Hall for a panel discussion about the future of Black history celebrations.