People-Stokes delivers for Underground Railroad Museum

By Evan DiPasquale

Niagara Falls, N.Y. (WBEN) - Assembly Majority leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes announcing on Thursday securing of $200,000 apiece for the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center and the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor.

“This funding helps to ensure growth and viability of these community anchors serving Buffalo’s east side and the City of Niagara Falls,” Majority Leader Peoples-Stokes said. “Two institutions whose objective is to educate the public about Black History in Western New York. I am proud to secure this funding for these great organizations.”

The Heritage Center highlights key historical facts and stories of freedom seekers including Harriot Tubman helping many slaves on their way to freedom.

"At a time when people like Harriet Tubman and movements such as the Underground Railroad are being silenced across America, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center remains open thanks to the tremendous support of New York State Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes,” Niagara Falls National Heritage Area Executive Director Sara Capen said. "Located at the pivotal crossing point for freedom seekers escaping enslavement to freedom in Canada, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center welcomes visitors to engage with this vital history and looks forward to working with Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor to create a rich and vibrant heritage experience for residents and travelers visiting Western New York."

New York State Representative Angelo Morinello speaking to the media Thursday wanted to keep the Heritage Commission and wants tourist to come and see the years of history it offers.

"We in Niagara Falls that have grown up here have recognized the importance of our corridor, the cataract house, that is where the servers were actually assisting those escaping from the South to get over to Canada." Morinello said.