The 2018 John Brown Day has been set for Saturday, May 5th, at John Brown Farm Historic Site, in Lake Placid. The event will honor the awardees of The Spirit of John Brown Freedom Awards dedicated to honoring women and men whose work invokes the passion and conviction of the 19th century abolitionist who dedicated his life to the cause of liberation.

This year’s awardees are:

Jen Kretser, Director of Programs and the Youth Climate Initiative at The Wild Center, Tupper Lake. Jen is a youth champion, a mentor, a motivating force who has committed herself to climate activism, youth engagement and empowerment.

Soffiyah Elijah, Executive Director of the Harlem-based Alliance of Families for Justice. Soffiyah is an advocate, attorney, scholar, and educator who has dedicated her life to human rights and social activism.

Martín Espada, Poet. Martín is an award-winning poet, teacher, attorney and activist committed to social justice, especially for the Latino/a community.

The day’s event will also include a performance by vocalist Max Alden Smith