Senate marks fourth anniversary of Buffalo supermarket massacre and adopts resolution honoring victims

The New York State Senate on May 13 took time on the floor to remember the victims of the May 14, 2022 mass shooting at a Buffalo supermarket and to urge sustained policy attention and community supports.

Senator April Baskin, sponsor of the resolution, described the anniversary as a continuing trauma for Buffalo’s East Side and listed the names of the victims as part of the chamber’s memorial remarks. “We should cry,” she said on the floor, speaking of the survivors and the families still living with grief and calling for public remembrance and action.

Several colleagues offered tributes and urged policy responses. Senator Zellner, speaking as a senator from Buffalo, recalled community loss and highlighted survivors still carrying pain. Senator Sanders called the attack “a warning shot across the bow” and urged that public life resist the racist violence that inspired the attack. Senator Comrie and others urged stronger civic education, supports for communities, and policy measures to counter radicalization and hate.

Speakers repeatedly tied the remembrance to legislative responsibilities, urging that commemoration be matched with investments in violence prevention, mental health and community resources. Several senators emphasized the need for continued attention to gun safety, community resilience and long-term supports for families. The resolution was adopted (adoption date recorded as May 12) and sponsors invited colleagues to cosponsor and participate in memorial events.

Ending: Senate leaders said the chamber will keep Buffalo and the families of the victims in its thoughts and urged continued policy work to prevent similar tragedies.