Just before the recent snow storm, I paid a visit to the new African American Veterans Monument (AAVM) at the Erie Basin Marina, which I initially posted about back in June. The striking monument, designed by Jonathan Casey and the team at Solid 716, pays tribute to African Americans who have served, and are currently serving, in all six branches of the military.
The unprecedented work of art – designed as a matrix that represents a timeline of 12 conflicts – is illuminated at the top. The 12 lit pillars represent candles that were placed by family members in their windows as beacons, to guide brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, and sons and daughters, home. The work of art honors African American Veterans – those who enlisted voluntarily, and those who were drafted.
African American Veterans have heroically fought in US wars, starting with the Revolutionary War in 1775. At the same time, they are considered a disenfranchised group that deserve to be recognized for their contributions towards safeguarding the American dream.
From the Revolutionary War to the War on Afghanistan, the monument represents the integrity, strength, and resilience of African Americans from every branch of service. These heroic, esteemed, and selfless souls, fought for this country despite facing unequal representation, disrespect, and disregard for their basic civil rights.
The monument site features commemorative concrete bricks inscribed with the names of African American Veterans, their branch of service, and rank or years of service (learn more about the bricks).
The AAVM extends the current footprint of The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park on Buffalo’s waterfront at Canalside and the Erie Basin Marina.
A dedication and unveiling ceremony was held this past September, flanked by the historic Edward M Cotter fireboat.
Learn about the stories of war.
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