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Tribute to Kay Patterson: A Legacy of Leadership and Change
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Former state senator Kay Patterson, a prominent figure in South Carolina politics, passed away on Friday at the age of 93. His remarkable journey from cleaning offices at a segregated Statehouse to serving as a state legislator for more than three decades exemplifies his deep commitment to civil rights and public service.
The South Carolina Democratic Party acknowledged his passing, stating that Patterson “left an indelible mark on our state,” praising his combination of humor and insight that resonated with many. The cause of his death has not been specified.
Born in 1931 in Darlington County, Patterson was raised by his grandmothers, who recognized his strong-willed nature early on. They advised against jobs such as caddying or shining shoes, predicting he might face trouble due to his outspoken demeanor in the racially charged atmosphere of 1940s South Carolina.
Instead, he served in the military and later pursued a teaching degree through the GI Bill at Allen University. It was during his college years that he found work cleaning offices in the segregated capitol, a place where he and other Black individuals could only enter in the course of their employment.
Reflecting on his journey, Patterson once remarked, “When I was a janitor, Black people couldn’t go in the Statehouse. And then one day I came back down here as a member of the House and then in ’84, I came back sitting in the Senate. Now that’s a hell of a long way to come.” This journey illustrates not only his personal triumphs but also the broader civil rights advancements in the region.
In 1974, Patterson was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives. A decade later, he transitioned to the state Senate after the encouragement of U.S. Representative Jim Clyburn, who later commended Patterson as “a trusted leader” and “a tireless champion for civil rights.” Clyburn highlighted Patterson’s steadfast efforts in advocating for the removal of the Confederate flag from the Statehouse dome, a contentious symbol within the state.
Patterson also made history as the first Black member of the University of South Carolina Board of Trustees since Reconstruction. His influence extended to both chambers of the legislature, where he played a pivotal role on budget committees and championed initiatives aimed at supporting civil rights and public education.
Despite his significant contributions, Patterson experienced challenges during the latter years of his career as the Republican Party gained dominance in state politics. He expressed frustration over the shifting dynamics, feeling that many newly elected Republicans prioritized their own interests over those of the broader community.
As he prepared for retirement, Patterson remained resolute about the importance of speaking out against injustices, regardless of the consequences. He emphasized the value of treating others with respect, stating, “That’s just my hallmark ever since I was a little child. It will get you in trouble now, but you can sleep well at night.”
Patterson concluded with a reflection on his conscience, saying, “Right now, I’m 73 years old and sleep like a log when I go to bed because I know I’ve done no wrong to my fellow man.” His legacy as a civil rights advocate and lawmaker continues to resonate in South Carolina and beyond, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of justice and equality.
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abcnews.go.com