A reflection on race and leadership at Emanuel AME with Citadel Prof. Joe Riley and Rep. James Clyburn

As seen on WCIV-TV Charleston

A report on the historic discussion held at the site of one of the nation’s most horrific hate crimes is available for viewing. The event held April 13, 2017, was a component of Prof. Joseph P. Riley Jr.’s course at The Citadel, “Old South City, New South Revival.” The 15-part course for Citadel cadets and students began in January, with each lecture open to the public, most of which were held on campus. Joined by Congressman James E. Clyburn and Emanuel AME pastor Rev. Eric Manning, the class ended in open discussion. They reflected on post-racial America and the 2015 shooting at the church. On the evening of June 17, 2015, nine churchgoers were killed by a gunman during bible study.

Clyburn delivered the keynote speech entitled, “Race in America: Reflections on Obama, Trump, and the Emanuel Massacre.” Riley, endowed chair of American government and public policy professor, is a graduate of The Citadel Class of 1964, and returned to his alma mater to teach classes after retiring from public office in 2016.