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Buffalo, What's Next? | Common Council Forum and Representation in Theater

Some City of Buffalo Common Council elections appear to be heavily contested this election year with some districts having as many as five candidates. We’re first joined by Terri Parks from the League of Women Voters Buffalo Niagara to discuss a candidate’s forum for those running for Common Council. We’re also joined by Scott Behrand and Peter Johnson – two of the leading members of Road Less Traveled Productions. The theater ensemble has made it their mission to showcase unique stage productions while celebrating and including creatives from all walks of life. Jay Moran talks about their individual journeys through the theater world and the specific work they’re currently doing to help artists of color establish themselves as professional thespians.

Latest Episodes
  • In this episode of What’s Next?, Dina Thompson of the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and training director Andy Prinzing speak with contributor Ekua Mends-Aidoo about how restorative justice can help address the root causes of student behavior, strengthen relationships in schools, and significantly reduce suspensions.
  • In recognition of Women’s History Month, this episode of What’s Next? revisits powerful conversations with women making a difference across Western New York.
  • Neighborhood centers have long supported families across Buffalo, but community needs are growing. On this episode of What’s Next?, Chandra Redfern, CEO of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, discusses rising demand for services including food access, childcare support, and programs for older adults.
  • As lawmakers debate the New York State budget, advocates are pushing for $750 million to stabilize nursing homes and prevent more closures. Sebrina Barrett of LeadingAge New York, Hadley Horrigan of Catholic Health, and Lisa Haglund of Heritage Ministries join What’s Next? for a conversation about funding, access to care, and what it means for families across the region.
  • The New York Attorney General's investigation into Buffalo Public Schools confirmed long-standing concerns: Black students are six times more likely to be suspended than white students, and Latino students four times more likely. Jessica Bauer Walker and Sam Radford join What’s Next? to discuss the required reforms and their impact on students and families.
  • Emmanuel Kulu, founder of the Ancient African Antiquities Research Institute of America and creator of the Sankofa Conference, joins What’s Next to discuss this year’s theme, Know Thyself: A Call to the Diaspora.
  • British journalist and historian Zeinab Badawi joins What’s Next to discuss her six-year project, The History of Africa. We also hear from community builder Juweria Dahir and her son Gerbriel Sharif, a young historian, as they discuss remembering African history beyond narratives of struggle and strengthening connections across the diaspora.
  • Bill O’Connell, the new Executive Director of Neighborhood Legal Services, discusses his path to the organization and the systemic challenges facing public benefits programs, along with his vision for expanding access to justice. We also continue our preview of the Sankofa Conference with Talia Johnson-Huff, founder of MWBE Constructors Inc. and creator of the Black Business Curriculum.
  • Chantele Campbell of BestSelf Behavioral Health joins What’s Next to discuss the importance of mental health in the Black community, addressing the impact of housing, workforce challenges, and other social determinants. We also hear from Kinya Baker, a registered social worker and educator. A conversation about mental wellness, empathy, and strengthening community connections.
  • As Buffalo prepares for the Sankofa Conference, Anthony Pierce and Selam Debs join What’s Next for a conversation centered on culture, identity, and accountability. A conversation about learning from the past to build a more just future.