Milton Sernett, professor emeritus of African American studies, was quoted in a WAER article titled, "Black History Month: CNY luminaries led the way for Freedom Seekers."

The piece outlined the pivotal role the City of Syracuse played in supporting freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Sernett offered insights into a lesser-known abolitionist, Lucy Watson, who helped during the Jerry Rescue, a public effort to free a fugitive slave arrested in October 1851.