Fragrance Harris-Stanfield IN THE MIDST OF STRUGGLE

Residents of Buffalo, NY, including myself, have been profoundly affected by the events of May 14, 2022. I still find it difficult to even walk by the Tops Supermarket on Jefferson, which is the nearest market to me.

 As the anniversary of that day approaches, I plan to write an article about my dear friend, whose spirit of activism has become a pivotal voice in shaping the narrative around the “Survivors” of this terrible event. Fragrance Harris-Stanfield, who was the front-end manager working with her eldest daughter during the racially motivated attack, has been sought after by numerous media outlets.

 The public is only aware of a fraction of the incredible person I have known for over twelve (12) years. She is not only a singer and songwriter but also an educator, entrepreneur, and a homeschooling mother of seven children.

 So, how close are we? Well, I was her doula for one of her children and laid eyes on him even before she did. Our kids, both the older and younger ones, have been raised together, participating in many activities common among homeschoolers in their community. Her younger ones and my son, Asheem, swim and play soccer together. They even played guitar for the Hispanic Heritage Council’s Guitar Initiative. No matter how busy she is, she always makes time to lend a hand, which I especially valued after my recent car accident. Our connection is much deeper than simple friendship.

Fragrance is committed to healing herself, her family, and the community from a past tragedy. This commitment led her to move just outside Buffalo. She has been a pillar for parents and youth in our community through her role as an educator. When challenges arise, she adeptly advocates for the services needed. I often marvel at her ability to manage it all, and as we discuss the complexities of life, we agree – “It’s a lot!” We’ve shared tears more than once, particularly over the last two years.