In 1863, when the 13th amendment abolished slavery in the United States, South Carolina was still a Confederate State. It was in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Charleston, that the city’s
enslaved population could truly celebrate freedom.
In recognition of the contribution of the African American community to South Carolina, the United States and the South Carolina Democratic Party we’ve proudly altered our logo for the
month of June in honor of Juneteenth. Furthermore, the South Carolina Democratic Party will recognize June 19th, “Juneteenth” as a paid Holiday.
Let us take a moment to celebrate the rich history and contributions of African Americans to culture and body politic, while acknowledging each of us is called to do much more to eliminate hate, disparities, inequity and police brutality.
We additionally recognize the five year anniversary of the untimely deaths of Emanuel 9. Five years later, innocent black men and women are still killed because of the color of their skin.
We must do better. We have to do better.
The Black lives of Clementa mattered, Cynthia mattered, Susie mattered, DePayne mattered, Tywanza mattered, Daniel mattered, Sharonda
mattered, Myra mattered, Ethel mattered. And every single life, taken too soon, be it by police or vigilante, also matter.
There isn’t a citizen anywhere in our State who wasn’t touched personally by this racially fueled massacre. As we look forward to a future filled with justice and liberty for all, we remember
those whose right to life was tragically ended June 17, 2015. As Democrats, we will continue to fight for progressive values and policies able to e
