In Conversation with Roc's Black Leaders

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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 who turned 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. She is now known as "Mama Mel", 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 program is co-sponsored by Brighton Memorial Library, Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, Fairport Public Library, Gates Public Library, Greece Public Library, Henrietta Public Library, Penfield Public Library, and Pittsford Community Library.