Since 2020, the second Monday in July is recognized as Abolition Commemoration Day in New York - and one local group is making sure that Brooklyn residents understand the history and significance of the day.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History held its inaugural Abolition Commemoration Day gathering at Abolitionist Place Park, which is believed to have served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Advocates, city officials and performers educated those in attendance about the cultural impact of abolition.

"A lot of folks believe the institution of slavery was something that was a down South issue, not understanding how important New York was in the continuation of enslaved Africans," said Bridget Smith, of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. "Unfortunately, just like so much of our history, it's uncovered and we have to bring that to the forefront."