Orangeburg Massacre remembrance to be virtual this year

COLUMBIA (Associated Press): The commemoration of South Carolina’s deadliest day during the civil rights movement will be virtual this year.

The organizers of the Orangeburg Massacre remembrance typically want as much public attention as possible so history won’t forget the three Black South Carolina State University students killed on Feb. 8, 1968.

The students were shot by state troopers during a protest against a segregated bowling alley.

Because of COVID-19, the university says the wreath laying and memorial flame lighting ceremonies Monday at the Smith Hammond Middleton Legacy Plaza will be on Zoom.

Attorney and state Rep. Justin Bamberg will be the guest speaker.