In Conversation with ROC's Black Leaders: Melanie Funchess Online
Melanie Funchess is the focus of a new chapbook highlighting the work of Black leaders in Rochester. Melanie spent her earliest years in survival mode. When her mother was no longer able to care for her, she went to live with extended family where she dealt with abuse and neglect, and ended up in and out of shelters. At fifteen, she met a missionary whose support helped her turn her life around. Since then, Melanie has gained wisdom and found her strength in community building, especially among young people of color. She has served as an advocate for children, youth, and families for over two decades. Known as "Mama Mel" to most, she is described as "a strong and proud Black woman with a reputation for showing up."
Join us via Zoom as we hear from Melanie and the book’s creative team, essayist Quajay Donnell and photographer Natalia Lauer. The discussion will be moderated by Amanda Chestnut, curator of the chapbook series, In This Moment, published by Visual Studies Workshop. In This Moment chapbooks are available at local public libraries.
This FREE program is co-sponsored by Brighton Memorial Library, Central Library of Rochester & Monroe County, Fairport Public Library, Gates Public Library, Greece Public Library, Henrietta Public Library, Penfield Public Library, and Pittsford Community Library.
Please REGISTER BELOW to receive the link for this online program.
- Date:
- Tuesday, February 27, 2024
- Time:
- 7:00pm - 8:00pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Online:
- This is an online event. Event URL will be sent via registration email.
- Audience:
- Adults
- Categories:
- Black History Community Department - Local History & Genealogy Department - Science, History & Technology History Lecture Local History Streamed Event Women's History