Juneteeth commemorates the emancipation of black people enslaved in America.

"June 19 was the day the last [enslaved people] in the U.S. were freed," said Andre Lewis, assistant director of the neighborhood family center in Albany. "I think it is a critical component to the advancement of the African American community, particularly, in the south end."

The abolishment of slavery for black people throughout the United States was, and remains to be, a major milestone for the community, but looking at present day issues and institutions — like criminal justice reform — Dr. Alice Green says the nation has a long way to go.

"We compare on what we are seeing now because there are many things [telling] us we haven't achieved that freedom yet," Green, executive director of Albany's Center for Law and Justice, said.

Lawmakers in Albany just approved a measure eliminating criminal records associated with minor marijuana offenses. However, the law fell short of total legalization.

"Unfortunately, police still use marijuana laws as an entree into black communities," Dr. Green explained.

Larry Scott specializes in selling positive clothing to local communities, he says the new legislation does not help anyone wanting to invest in the pot business.

"If someone in California is making money and they're not a criminal, how can you be a criminal in New York state," Scott asked.

Advocates feel New York may be getting closer to legalization and want longtime local businesses to reap some of the benefits.

"All of these businesses located in this neighborhood, right across the street from a beautiful swath of residents, and we all work together to build the community," said Travon Jackson of the Albany African American Cultural Center.