Join us online on January 23 to learn about the history and cultural significance of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park—the only extant African American Cemetery in New York City.
The Historic Frederick Douglass Memorial Park Inc., was established in 1935 in the Oakwood Heights neighborhood of Staten Island. Since its conception, Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, Inc. has been committed to providing a dignified resting place for all while preserving the legacy of African American history. As the final resting place of notable musicians, professional athletes, businesspeople, and public figures, the sacred grounds honor the past by celebrating cultural traditions and serve as a beacon of education and inspiration, fostering deep connections between generations through the celebration of traditions and the elevation of untold stories.
About the Speakers:
Brandon Stradford
Brandon’s personal and professional lived experiences have a common thread, advocacy and equity. He is dedicated to the protection and empowerment of 'the voiceless,’ investing in efforts to uplift historically disenfranchised communities, and partnering with organizations to support, educate and buoy marginalized communities.
In 2019, a new Board of Directors of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park (FDMP) was sworn in, and Brandon became Vice President of Events and External Affairs. It was a unique opportunity to re-brand FDMP from a seemingly rudderless and troubled cemetery to the celebrated and respected organization that it once was. In 2023, he became President of the Board. Together we grew the re-branding of FDMP in publicity, fundraising, community partnering, and focusing on preservation. We purposely expanded our footprint to include audiences who were new to FDMP and its history. Our re-branding has led to history walking tours, development of a curriculum and more. In June 2024, the Board and all FDMP families celebrated the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission's designation of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park as a New York City landmark.
As an Educator, Brandon is honored by opportunities to join academic communities wholly devoted to the cultivation of young minds and adult learners. Igniting a passion to learn, and promoting the curiosity to explore the unknown remains both a blessing and a privilege.
Brandon is a skilled Events Planner, Operations Resources Lead, Non-Profit Fundraiser, Writer, Teacher and Human Resources Expert whose expertise includes service as a Chief of Staff of Communications and Community Affairs, a Human Resources Director, a Constituent Liaison for Council Member/Deputy Majority Leader, Debi Rose (Fmr), and Food Pantry Coordinator. Proudly served on the mission fields of South-East Asia and Soweto.
Lynn Cuffee
Lynn Cuffee has dedicated over 38 years to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), where she serves as a Contract Manager overseeing government contracts for capital construction projects across the five boroughs. She has collaborated with federal, state, and local agencies on infrastructure and recovery efforts, including work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on coastal erosion projects following Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy.
In 2015, Lynn joined Vision Zero’s Safety Education initiative, focusing on reducing traffic fatalities. She worked in the South Bronx, speaking with students about vehicle and pedestrian safety. She also shared her son William’s tragic car accident story to highlight the dangers of impaired driving, inspiring the creation of a mural titled “Manaje Sobrio” (Drive Sober).
In 2022, Lynn was elected Board Secretary of Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, the only active African American cemetery in New York State built by and for African Americans. Her preservation work, including researching historical records and collaborating with the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, led to the cemetery’s Individual Landmark designation in June 2024.
A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Lynn’s extensive legal training and contract expertise have been invaluable in her roles, both at the DOT and with the cemetery. She is passionate about preserving African American history and ensuring dignity in both life and death.
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Black Historic Sites in Conversation is a series of virtual talks in collaboration with different Black heritage sites & cultural centers in the greater NYC area, about the ongoing work of preserving, interpreting, and celebrating Black history and historical figures.
This program is funded in part by Humanities New York with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.