The Buffalo Documentary Project (BDP) was brought to life in the summer of 2016 by filmmaker Mani Mehrvarz. Its mission is to uncover untold stories in the city of Buffalo and Western New York. Mehrvarz assembled a team of artists, filmmakers, researchers, and educators to collaborate on producing documentary films that delve into the communities, art, and culture of Buffalo. With ten episodes produced to date, BDP brings to the fore a diverse array of narrators and subjects to capture the oral history and lived experiences of the city, extending beyond mainstream narratives.

Valuing oral history through documentary filmmaking is crucial as it vividly presents accounts of the city that are absent from written books or official records. This project embodies love, life, and collaboration, as it directly engages with individuals and their untold stories about their authentic experiences and lives in Buffalo and WNY. It aims to resonate with viewers' hearts and reach a broader audience by harnessing the power of film to communicate. The Buffalo Documentary Project focuses on the periphery, seeking to give a voice to the individuals and communities who have contributed to the city's growth in various significant ways with their valuable work, art, care, and service.