02/21/2026
An Evening of Unity, Service, and Shared Humanity
On February 19, 2026, Buffalo United for Peace, alongside with 8th Judicial District Administrative Judge Hon. Amy C. Martoche and County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz, proudly hosted the 16th Annual Ramadan Friendship Dinner at the historic Old County Hall Courthouse.
Under the theme “Together We Serve,” the evening brought together leaders of faith, government, and community — united by a shared commitment to service and understanding.
We were also honored by the presence of Mayor Sean M. Ryan, New York State Senator Jeremy J. Zellner, Judge Hon. Zainab A. Chaudhry, Imam Dawoud Sabu Adeyola, Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein, and many dedicated community members.
The Educational Leadership Award was presented to Buffalo Toronto Public Media Board President, Cynthia E. Vance. The Community Service Award was presented to Journey’s End Refugee Services CEO, Pamela Bos Kefi.
One message resonated throughout the night:
Unity is not uniformity — it is relationship with differences.
A soulful ney recital closed the evening with reflection and spiritual depth — a reminder that faith, justice, and service are most powerful when rooted in compassion.
Grateful to everyone who made this meaningful gathering possible.
