Anti-Hate Walk & Rally

Recently a disturbing incident occurred in our town, Kingstree, SC.  A Caucasian local business owner used the “n” word towards an African American woman not knowing his phone was left on for her to hear the name calling.  The woman was understandably, deeply disturbed and deeply hurt and so reported the hateful incident to the local officials who contacted the NAACP.  Immediate action went into place and ANTI-HATE WALK and RALLY was organized for Saturday, June 27th in Kingstree, SC, the county seat.

Public attendees were invited to wear masks, to socially distance, to peacefully protest and to denounce racism.  Immediately, Sister Carol, Sister Johnna and Sister Susanne knew they should/would participate.  Sister Carol and Sister Johnna planned to do the walk from one location up Main Street to the courthouse. Sister Susanne would join those gathered at the courthouse.  Each of them would carry a sign that read, “HATE HAS NO HOME HERE”. Yet there was some anxiety and fear for we all know such events can be unpredictable.

But on that Saturday, June 27, 2020, there was much peace and much joy as hundreds gathered of all ages, faiths, and colors to unite in the cause.  Prayers were prayed and speeches were made. Songs were sung and there were words of solidarity with the African American woman, who was present, which expressed forgiveness, peace, and support.                                                     

The Sisters were especially proud to see some Felician Center board members, our legal counsel, some volunteers and staff, some families, and children of the Learning Center from the past and the present.  

In some ways, it looked like something from an old movie but here we were in the year 2020 facing familiar issues that should have decreased since the days of the emancipation.  Perhaps this event would get to be a closer ending to a violent and hateful world in need of acceptance, peace, and love.  Thank you to those who prayed for our safety.

Additional information related to this story can be found at We will never stand for hate article in the June 30, 2020 edition of the Kingstree News.