Columbia Commemorates 60 Years of Civil Rights Progress with Ceremony and Expungement of Activists’ Records

Columbia Celebrates a Milestone in Civil Rights History

In a heartwarming ceremony on Friday, the city of Columbia will commemorate a significant moment in civil rights history. It marks 60 years since two brave men, Charles F. Barr and Reverend Simon P. Bouie, stood up against injustice by sitting at segregated lunch counters, challenging the status quo of their time.

A Step Back in Time

Back in the 1960s, sitting at the lunch counters of Columbia drugstores like the Taylor Street Pharmacy and Eckerd’s may seem like a normal outing today. However, for Barr and Rev. Bouie, being Black and occupying those seats was not just socially taboo but also a legal transgression. They were charged with trespassing—a stark reminder of the systemic racism embedded in society during that time.

Fast forward to June 22, 1964, when these two courageous men brought their cases to the U.S. Supreme Court. Their actions and decisions were not only pivotal for their lives but also contributed to the political momentum that ultimately led to the passing of the Civil Rights Act just a few days later. As history shows, the fight for equality is often fought at a very personal level, and Barr and Bouie’s efforts symbolized that fight vividly.

Clearing Their Names

On this commemorative occasion, both Barr and Rev. Bouie’s criminal records will finally be expunged, a light shining through the clouds of a past marred by discrimination. The ceremony will take place at the Richland County courthouse on Main Street, presided over by State Judge Robert Hood. The office of 5th Judicial Circuit Solicitor Byron Gipson will facilitate the expungements, symbolizing a long-awaited acknowledgment of the injustices faced by these activists.

Honoring Other Heroes

The event will not only celebrate Barr and Bouie but also honor five other civil rights activists posthumously. The families of Reverend David Carter, Johnny Clark, Richard Counts, Milton Greene, and Talmadge Neal, who stood alongside Barr and Bouie during the brave sit-in protests, will receive special proclamations recognizing their valiant efforts in the fight for equality. Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann will present these accolades, ensuring that their legacies are cherished and remembered.

A Moment to Reflect

The reception following the ceremony will take place at the Brookland Baptist Church’s Banquet and Reception Center on Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia. Local leaders and community members will gather to reflect on the sacrifices made by these heroes in the name of justice, while also considering the work that still lies ahead to ensure equality for all.

As we stand at this significant intersection of history and progress, the events of Friday promise not only to celebrate the past but also to inspire future generations. The fight for civil rights is an ongoing journey, and the stories of Barr, Rev. Bouie, and their fellow activists serve as touchstones reminding us of the importance of standing up for what is right and just.

Join the Celebration

If you find yourself in Columbia on Friday, the ceremony is set to begin at 12 p.m.. It’s a unique opportunity to witness history being honored and corrective actions being taken against a long-standing injustice. Join in the celebration, not just to remember the past, but to advocate for a brighter, more equitable future for all.