Members of the LWVBN DEI Committee and representatives of 15 other organizations met at the new West Side Bazaar on November 15, 2023. The group included Buffalo Niagara District Councilman David Rivera and, from the mayor’s office, Chief Diversity Officer Darren Saxon and City Comptroller Barbara Miller-Williams. We enjoyed an opportunity to learn about one another’s organizational history, projects and how we might work together in the coming year. Videographer Rick Wall interviewed various attendees, so we have documentation of the work and mission of the organizations represented.

Members of the Delta Theta Sorority, a civic organization that is more than 100 years old, were interested in the League’s assistance with civics education and voting information. Darren Saxon referred us to Pastor Alexis who is interested in providing such information to members of his three congregations of immigrants from African nations. A real bonus was registering a new voter, Erin St. John Kelly, a WEDI member, who had recently moved to Erie County.

The West Side Bazaar vendors catered the event. The food was delicious, and Maria Provenzano and Erin, who presented the buffet table, were extremely gracious and accommodating. This is definitely a great place to consider for future League events.

I want to thank our committee members for their input during meetings and for making phone calls to people who had not responded to our invitation. The personal touch of phone calls made quite a difference in the turnout. Last but not least, we all thank Timothy Priano, co-chair of the DEI Committee, for making the arrangements with people from WEDI and underwriting the event. As always, his contributions were exemplary!

Elizabeth Zausmer, Co-Chair, DEI Committee