Simkins, Modjeska Monteith

Modjeska Simkins speaks on the status of Black leadership in South Carolina and on the opening of public facilities as a highlight of the Civil Rights movement. The fight for economic development, the fight against the drug trade, the establishment of “family values,” and support for “law and order” should be the focus of future efforts. She speaks on the conflict between herself and Democratic Party leaders in the 1960s. Simkins states that the Confederate Flag flying above the State Capitol Building signifies a celebration of a defeat, and says compromise is necessary for the political process. She also speaks on the lack of Black representation on State Boards and Commissions.

Modjeska Simkins describes membership in the Republican Party before 1950s and says she holds an independent political philosophy. Simkins supports individual candidates regardless of party affilation. She states, “I am not a South Carolina Democratic Party member.” Shots of reporter Tom Broadwater asking Simkins questions.