SUNY Potsdam Communication professor John Youngblood delivered the keynote address for the “Juneteenth” Variety Show in Albany.

Youngblood, a well-known civil rights advocate who often speaks on racial and civil rights issues, is honored to be a part of this event.

Juneteenth is a celebration of heritage while paying homage to former enslaved African and African-American ancestors. President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation speech declared slavery should be abolished on Jan. 1, 1863. More than 30 months later – on June 19, 1865 - slaves in Texas were finally freed after Union soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas informing people the Civil War had ended and slaves were free.

“Juneteenth is an important U.S. holiday, where we honor our ancestors who built America during their enslavement. Despite the tireless efforts and sacrifices of our ancestors, African Americans continue to fight for our basic human rights and for the true dignities afford this country’s citizens. Our nation remains gripped by racism and all too eager to omit, ignore and gloss over its existence as well as the true impact and contributions of our ancestors. It is our responsibility to continue to honor the lives and legacies of our enslaved foremothers and forefathers. They are our national heroes and warriors, and we give thanks for their faith in God,” Youngblood said.

Being held on the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth, the L.O.W. (Leaders Operating Wisely) Foundation is partnering with Albany Barn to showcase the talents of more than a dozen area artists while remembering the sacrifice of their ancestors.

The L.O.W. Foundation and Albany Barn held the Juneteenth Variety Show Friday, June 19 at the Albany Barn, 56 Second St. in Albany.

Visit www.albanybarn.org/product/juneteenth for more information.