Help Us Commemorate Westchester’s Hidden Black History—and Amplify Voices Across Our Communities.

We are Commemorate, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and uplifting Black histories in Westchester County, New York. Through public art, education, and community engagement, we uncover truths long buried—and inspire action to dismantle the enduring legacies of enslavement and systemic racism.

What we've accomplished:

Published “Our Town and Slavery” in The Roost (Irvington Historical Society, 2019), identifying the names of 14 enslaved Africans (of many who remain unnamed) who lived in colonial Irvington and launched public lectures and educational programs.

Identified and encouraged the village of Irvington to memorialize the Enslaved African Burial Ground on the Buckhout/Jewel farm in Irvington.

Commissioned “Yesterday”, a public sculpture by Vinnie Bagwell that honors the memory of the enslaved people.

Produced “The Hidden Cost of Progress: Urban Renewal in Ossining”, a documentary by Joyce Sharrock Cole and Ken Sargeant that reveals how urban renewal policies displaced Black families and businesses.

Our motto: What policy razed, policy must raise!

Watch the documentary and learn more HERE

Your donation will help us:

Expand educational programming and host more community screenings

Develop curriculum materials to accompany our films and exhibits

Preserve and share historical research through accessible digital platforms

Support future public art and memorial projects

Sustain our nonprofit operations and grow our impact

Your donation today could be doubled!



We’re eligible for up to $1,500 in matching grant funds from ArtsWestchester—but it’s first come, first served. That means early donations have the greatest impact. Help us unlock every dollar while funds last!

How You Can Help:

Please donate today: Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference.

Share Our Campaign: Spread the word via social media, email, or word of mouth.

Host a Screening: Bring The Hidden Cost of Progress to your school, library, or community group.