ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — A celebration was held outside the Arnett Branch Library to honor Austin Steward, a noted abolitionist and businessman with deep ties to Rochester.
Steward was born into slavery in 1793 and brought to New York at age 7. He later escaped and made Rochester his home.
Each year, the Community Justice Initiative hosts the event to help more people, especially young people, learn about Steward’s life and legacy. Organizers said Steward’s work predates Frederick Douglass’ time in Rochester…