The Visit of Congressman James Clyburn to Buffalo
Congressman James Clyburn, Dr. Eva M. Doyle and Congressman Tim Kennedy.
On the weekend of August 30, 2024, Congressman James Clyburn visited Buffalo. Congressman Clyburn is the U.S. Representative for South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District. He served as the third-ranking House Democrat behind Nancy Pelosi. After the Democrats took control of the House in the 2018 midterm elections, Clyburn was elected Majority Whip in January, 2019 at the opening of the 116th Congress. He played a pivotal role in the 2020 presidential election by endorsing Joe Biden three days before the South Carolina Primary. In this current 2024 election after Joe Biden suspended his campaign, Clyburn has endorsed Kamala Harris for the next president of the United States.
At the invitation of Congressman Tim Kennedy, Congressman Clyburn paid a visit to Buffalo. He spoke on Friday, August 30, 2024 at the Delaine Waring African Methodist Episcopal Church, located at 680 Swan Street. He spoke to an enthusiastic audience encouraging them to vote in this upcoming presidential election calling it the most important election of our lifetime.
Pictured are: Sandy White, Congressman James Clyburn and Congressman Tim Kennedy. Kerry Saunders is shown in rear). ~ Criterion Photo
This columnist had an opportunity to meet Congressman Clyburn on Saturday, August 31st at the studios of WUFO radio station on Broadway here in Buffalo. The first thing that impressed me was his “handshake.” It was a firm handshake. He looked directly at me along with a welcoming smile. He was a guest on L. Nathan Hare’s radio show. He spoke again on the importance of voting especially this year and what was at stake for the American people in this election.
While here in Buffalo, Clyburn toured the African American Heritage Corridor visiting many of the important sites including the Nash Home Museum, the home of the late Pastor Jesse Nash, Sr. and his wife for many years. Rev. Nash was the pastor of the Michigan Street Baptist Church for many years. The Nash House is now a place where the work of Rev. Nash is on full display with many of his historical documents relating to his civil rights work can be seen.
Rep. Clyburn has a great interest in history. He is a graduate of South Carolina State College, now South Carolina University, a historically Black college. He graduated from there with a bachelor’s degree in history. He joined the Omega Psi Fraternity. He is also a former high school teacher. As Congressman he fought for more funding in education, especially special education. Congressman Clyburn has fought for civil rights and the needs of his constituents for many years. It was a great honor to meet him!!