U.S. Congressman James Clyburn was a young man sitting in the crowd on the damp, rainy Mother’s Day in Kingstree in 1966. He was one of thousands who came to hear Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. share his message about the importance of a newfound right for African Americans – the right to vote! In Congressman Clyburn’s own words.

“My wife Emily and I were in attendance on that spring day in Kingstree, nearly 50 years ago, when Dr. King sounded his clarion call to “march to the ballot box.” We were inspired toward a lifetime of service and engagement. As we look back on that momentous occasion and reflect on Dr. King’s call, we must also look forward. The struggle for voting rights and voter engagement continues and each of us must do our part to take up Dr. King’s work and make it our own.”

Congressman Clyburn and his staff join the entire town of Kingstree, Williamsburg County and our planning committee in the excitement of this once-in-a-lifetime commemorative celebration.