State Senator John L. Sampson To Co-host "juneteenth Freedom Day" Event

State Senator John L. Sampson (D-Brooklyn) announced today that he will be co-hosting a two-day celebration of "Juneteenth Freedom Day." This event celebrates June 19, 1865, which marks the official end of slavery for African-Americans in the U. S., and the signing of Chap.#113 (2004) into law, which officially recognizes the oldest known African-American holiday in New York State.

"I am thrilled to be able to participate in this wonderful celebration. It will be a day of commemoration and reflection on a time in our history that has had a lasting impact on African American culture," said Senator Sampson.

The event will take place on June 10-12, 2005 at the Brownsville Recreational Center. The Senator will be co-hosting the event with Assemblyman Darryl C. Towns (D-Brooklyn), who sponsored this legislation in the Assembly. "I commend Assemblyman Towns for his perseverance in supporting this legislation, and I am pleased to be able to share my hosting duties with him for this uplifting event," said Senator Sampson.

The itinerary for the two-day event is as follows:
Friday: Gospel Sing-Off and a Talent Explosion (6-9 pm)
Saturday: Double-Dutch Contest, Step Show Performance, Storytelling and a Poetry Jam (10 am-4 pm)
Sunday: Individuals will congregate at their individual places of worship to celebrate the slaves who used Negro spirituals and their faith to persevere through the horrible reality of slavery.

"It is an honor to participate in this worthwhile event honoring our ancestors who overcame incredible adversity. It is important to remember the past and to honor those who came before us so that we can grow together as a community in a positive direction for the future. I look forward to celebrating with the community," said Senator Sampson.

For more information about this event, interested individuals may contact Senator Sampson’s Albany office at 518-455-2788, or Assemblyman Towns, Albany Office at 518-455-5821.