An exhibit about The Brothers, a group of activists group from the 1960s who are credited with paving the way for people of color in Albany, was unveiled at an event Thursday night in the Arbor Hill/ West Hill Branch of the Albany Public Library.

The display showcases archive photos and newspaper articles about The Brothers and their fight for civil rights, a story recently spotlighted by Spectrum News 1 in its Black History Uncovered series.

The group made significant contributions in Albany and beyond, advocating against employment discrimination, political corruption, inequities in housing and health care.

Three original members — Purcell McDowell, Leon Van Dyke and Earl Thorpe — took part in Thursday's event.

"We caught hell organizing, so to see people that have not forgotten the sacrifices that some of these men and women made in the 60s and 70's with The Brothers. It was kind of like overwhelming it really was."

What You Need To Know

  • The Brothers was formed in the 60s and advocated against employment discrimination, political corruption, inequities in housing and health care

  • A new exhibit at the Arbor Hill/West Hill branch of the Albany Public Library showcases their lasting impact on civil rights

  • The archives will be on display through May

The exhibit also showcases the documentary The Brothers: The Forgotten Struggle for Civil Rights in Albany. The film was directed and edited by Paul Miller.

Brian Keough, head of collections and archives at the state University at Albany, was instrumental in the making of the documentary, providing new archival photos and commentary. Through his work at the university, he has extensively researched the history of The Brothers and their impact.

"We understand today, we accept political protest and social activism and it's sort of what democracy is, but in Albany in the early 60’s, it was frowned upon, and that's the real courageous thing here, is men and women risked their lives to change their community,” said Keough.

With new eyes on the exhibit, McDowell hopes young people will be inspired to fight for what’s right.

"I really pray that people will take a look at what these men, The Brothers, done in the past and say, 'hey listen, let's keep this legacy going.'"

The exhibit will be on display through the month of May to celebrate Local History Month. Drop-in viewing hours are 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays.