Charleston mayor emphasizes importance of African-American education

Charleston Mayor Joe Riley emphasized the importance of African-American history to students graduating Monday from the University of South Carolina.

“Ignorance fuels bigotry,” said Riley, adding, “Ignorance of the history of African-Americans is a huge defect in our country.”

If accused Charleston shooter Dylann Roof had been taught the history of slavery and African-Americans, “he wouldn’t have been able to have that bigotry in his heart because of the knowledge of the contributions of African-Americans,” Riley said.

Riley recalled getting a phone call from the Charleston police chief about 9:30 p.m. on June 17, telling him there had been a shooting at Emanuel AME Church.

Riley said he put on a coat and tie, knowing everything he said or did that night had to be perfect. He wanted his actions to show respect to the church and family members of the nine shooting victims.

Riley said he was confident the community would respond to the act of hatred with love and togetherness. “The next morning, in front of the Emanuel AME Church, people —black and white — were there sobbing together, hugging each other, singing hymns, saying prayers, lighting candles.”

Riley, who leaves office in January after 40 years as Charleston’s mayor, said efforts to repair and rebuild Charleston’s inner city, and restore dilapidated houses also contributed to the city’s peaceful response to the tragedy.