S.C. House and Senate agree to debate Confederate flag removal

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COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — The South Carolina House and Senate adopt resolutions to debate the Confederate flag, after the budget is passed. In a vote 103-10, the S.C. House adopted a resolution that will allow for debate on the Confederate flag. The Senate voted to adopt the resolution shortly after. Those senators from Charleston, made passionate pleas for support. “it is time to acknowledge our past, atone for our sins and work toward a better future,” Senator Paul Thurmond said. “That future must be built on symbols of peace love and unity.” The Republican acknowledged he’s aware of his heritage. It’s one that includes his father, U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond, a once-vocal segregationist. Senator Marlon Kimpson posed the question, where was God the night tragedy struck Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston. “God was with those who were killed, holding their hands, whispering in their ears,” he says, “in their transition from God’s earthly sanctuary to the great sanctuary above.” He says that will continue with this issue. “God will be with us to forge a real conversation about hate, race and division in this state, when we take down the confederate flag.” People outside the State House expressed their excitement. “South Carolina is moving into the future,” one visitor from Pennsylvania says. Gaston resident Donald Williams says he disappointed. “This is my heritage,” Williams says. “I had a grandfather who died in this war. That means a lot to me.” The House will debate removal of the Confederate Flag after passing the Budget. The Senate Republican Caucus released a statement : “The South Carolina Senate Republican Caucus voted overwhelmingly today to take up the issue of moving the Confederate Battle Flag from the statehouse grounds. At this moment, however, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. The members of the Caucus continue to mourn the loss of their colleague, Senator Clementa Pinckney, and all the victims of the shooting in Charleston.”