BUFFALO, N.Y. — Housing Opportunities Made Equal, Inc. (HOME) celebrated 60 years of service in Buffalo.
The organization advocates for victims, educates housing consumers and providers, and creates housing opportunities.
HOME was founded in 1963 during the civil rights movement. Concerned citizens in WNY came together to fight intolerance and the systems that were upholding segregation.
The organization was one of the first fair housing agencies to expand opportunities for diverse communities.
This year the Legacy Award was given to James Myers, Es.
The Change Noe! Award was presented to Professor Heather Abraham and the UB Civil Rights and Transparency Clinic.
The Creating the Future Award was handed out to Austin V. Martin.
HOME executive director Deanna Eason said, "HOME is a civil rights agency that fights for fair housing rights for everybody."
She said "it is still a battle. I know discrimination will never end in my lifetime and it is an uphill fight, but we are celebrating the work that has been done."
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York Attorney General Letitia James recorded video statements for the event.
Two On Your Side's Claudine Ewing served as emcee of the gala.