FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7, 2007
Krista Robertson
krobertson@trio-solutions.com
(843) 216-0442 or
(843) 224-8089

Organization recognizes past and present African-American Lawyers, Judges and Legislators

Columbia, SC --- On Friday, November 9, 2007, the African American Historical Alliance will host its 2nd Annual Legacy of Freedom Celebration to honor past and present African Americans in their dedication to equal rights for all. The event will consist of a symposium at the University of South Carolina (USC) followed by a black-tie gala at the Columbia Marriott in downtown Columbia.

The symposium is being sponsored by the Humanities CouncilSC and held in conjunction with the USC Law School and the USC African American Studies Program. Titled "19th Century African-American Congressmen, Legislators and Judges in South Carolina," the symposium will consist of two panels of eight historians and legal scholars discussing the leading African-American judges, legislators and congressmen who served in South Carolina during the Reconstruction and the two decades following. The symposium will be held at 2 p.m. at the University of South Carolina School of Law in room 135. It is free and open to the public.

The Legacy of Freedom Gala will honor four contemporary South Carolinians who have continued the fight for freedom that began during the Civil War and Reconstruction period. Honorees include Congressman James E. Clyburn, U.S. District Judge Matthew J. Perry, former Supreme Court Justice Earnest A. Finney Jr., and recently retired State Senator Kay Patterson. Chief Justice Jean Toal will be the keynote speaker that evening. The gala will feature a reception and awards dinner and will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $150 per person. Call (843) 216-0442 for more information or to purchase tickets.

The African American Historical Alliance was established to increase awareness about the role of African-Americans in South Carolina history during the Civil War and Reconstruction period. Their mission is to be a leading resource for education and the celebration of African American Civil War and Reconstruction history in South Carolina. The organization focuses on three areas: preservation, commemoration and education. For additional information about the Alliance visit www.aahasc.org or call (843) 216-0442.