Columbia Exonerates Civil Rights Activists in Historic Day of Remembrance

Columbia’s Historic Day of Remembrance and Justice

On a sunny Friday morning in Columbia, South Carolina, a long-overdue moment of justice finally arrived for seven men who made history over six decades ago. The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia, emotions, and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment as these brave individuals were finally exonerated for their roles in the pivotal sit-in protests against racial segregation back in March 1960.

The Beginning of a Movement

It all began when two college students, Simon Bouie and Talmadge Neal, walked into Eckerd’s Drug Store on Columbia’s Main Street, seeking a simple lunch. Little did they know, their actions would spark a new wave of civil rights activism. What began as a casual meal quickly turned into a scene of injustice as the young men were arrested for trespassing after ordering food in a restaurant that was only serving white customers.

Despite their apprehension, the students were resolute. “I wonder how many of us you’re going to arrest tomorrow,” Bouie questioned aloud as he was led away. The following day, five more students — Charles Barr, David Carter, Johnny Clark, Richard Counts, and Milton Greene — would find themselves in the same predicament at another local pharmacy known for its whites-only lunch counter. The protests, known as sit-ins, were a bold way to challenge the segregation that permeated American society.

A Legacy of Courage

In a heartfelt ceremony at the Richland County Courthouse, Bouie and Barr stood together once more. At the age of 85, both men reflected on that fateful day. Barr shared, “No one really realized what happened 60 years ago,” and reflected on the fear he felt before their pivotal act of defiance. What they could not foresee at the time was that they were about to become part of a larger narrative advocating for equality and justice.

These protests were among the first sparks of a growing movement expressing the demand for equal treatment of Black Americans. Supported by famous civil rights attorney Matthew J. Perry, these cases eventually reached the U.S. Supreme Court, resulting in landmark victories that would shape Columbia’s civil rights landscape.

Clearing Their Names

This past Friday, more than 60 years after their arrests, Judge Robert Hood granted expungements for the criminal records of the seven men involved in the sit-in protests. The moment was not just about legal acknowledgment but a symbolic cleansing of a painful past. Bobby Donaldson, Director of the Center for Civil Rights History and Research at the University of South Carolina, was one of the advocates for this recognition. He noted how significant the day was: “We gather today in this courtroom to mark not just a moment in legal history, but a profound act of justice and remembrance for our community.”

A Community United

The courtroom echoed with memories of the past as descendants and loved ones filled the seats, honoring their legacy. Empty chairs adorned with pale roses were laid out in remembrance of the five men who had passed away. Alongside Bouie and Barr, the spirit of the entire community was palpable, united by the love and courage of those who dared to change the status quo.

As part of the ceremony, proclamations from the city stated that it was time to acknowledge and rectify the historical injustices faced by those who simply sought to practice their rights as American citizens. “The records of the convictions should have been removed from city and state records. They were not,” the proclamations read, highlighting the overdue need for justice in Columbia.

Continuing the Fight

Senator Darrell Jackson expressed joy over the genuine acknowledgment of their actions and impact, noting how remarkable it is that a Black senator could now introduce resolutions in honor of the very same individuals who faced arrest for standing up for their rights. A sentiment shared by all present was that the journey towards equality is far from over, a fact acknowledged by Donaldson, who emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by these brave individuals.

In closing, the legacy of the sit-ins remains vibrant, reminding everyone that courage and hope can pave the way for lasting change. Bouie’s powerful statement still resonates today: “We had a desire to fight for what was right and no one could turn us around.” Columbia, finally acknowledging its past, has taken another significant step toward equality, marking a new chapter in its rich history.