The legislation’s sponsor, Sixth District Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC), took to the floor of the House last night to urge his colleagues to join with the 299 co-sponsors in support this well-deserved recognition.

“Mr. Speaker, if not for the personal sacrifices of those like Rev. Delaine, Mr. Pearson, the Briggs’, and many others, known and unknown, I and others like me may have never experienced membership in this body,” Congressman Clyburn said.  “This bill reminds us that it was the actions of a preacher & educator, a farmer, a gas station attendant, and motel maid that initiated the efforts that changed American society forever.  And I hope that our actions here tonight reminds all Americans that it is not our stations in life that makes us worthy of honor and recognition, but our commitment to the principals and pursuit of the promise ‘that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’” 

            Reverend DeLaine was the organizer of the desegregation lawsuits filed in Clarendon County.  As a result of his efforts, his home and church were attacked, and when he tried to fight back a warrant was sworn out for his arrest.  He fled South Carolina, and was never allowed to return.

            Harry and Eliza Briggs are the namesakes of Briggs v. Elliott, the Clarendon County case that was later incorporated into Brown v. Board of Education.  Because they were plaintiffs in this lawsuit, Harry Briggs lost his job as a gas station attendant and Eliza Briggs was fired as a domestic worker in a local motel.  Mr. Briggs had to move to Florida to find work to support his family back home.

            Levi Pearson filed the first lawsuit to desegregate Clarendon County schools, which was thrown out on a technicality.  It was the precursor to Briggs v. Elliott, and he suffered despite the suit’s dismissal.  As a local farmer, no bank would provide him credit and no white business owners would purchase Mr. Pearson’s timber.  However, he remained in the area and continued to be an outspoken voice in the civil rights movement.   

            “These are ordinary people who became extraordinary because of their actions,” Congressman Clyburn said.  “The lesson taught by these four individuals is that honor is not earned by titles, wealth or connections, but by your contributions to mankind.  Awarding these medals will serve to honor their enduring legacy.”

            Congressman Clyburn hopes to present the Congressional Gold Medals to the families of the honorees as part of the 50^th anniversary celebration of Brown v. Board of Education.   

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