Columbia Pays Tribute to Civil Rights Icon James Solomon Jr. Who Passed Away at 94

Columbia Mourns a Civil Rights Legend: James Solomon Jr. Passes Away at 94

It’s with heavy hearts that we share the news from Columbia, South Carolina, where a true hero has left us. James Solomon Jr., a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a beacon of hope for countless students, passed away on Friday at the age of 94. His remarkable journey and contributions to society resonate deeply in Columbia and beyond.

A Historic Pathway to Education

Born in McDonough, Georgia, Solomon was not just an extraordinary man; he was also a trailblazer. In 1963, along with two other courageous students, Henrie Monteith Treadwell and Robert Anderson, he became a pioneer in desegregating the University of South Carolina (USC). Their bold move forever changed the educational landscape of the university, as they were the first students of color to enroll in over a century. They made their historic entrance through the steps of USC’s Osborne Administration Building and moved purposefully toward Hamilton College to register for classes.

A Life of Service

Solomon’s journey did not end there. After completing high school at the astonishing age of 16, he spent a year in college before responding to his country’s call in the Air Force, where he served in Japan during the Korean War. Following his military service, he found love in Sumter with his wife, Helen. Fueled by a passion for knowledge and community service, Solomon earned a bachelor’s degree from Morris College and a master’s degree from Atlanta University.

While teaching as a professor at his alma mater, he began considering furthering his education at USC. After the paths were paved by his fellow classmates Anderson and Monteith, Solomon took the leap and enrolled in USC’s graduate program in mathematics.

Honoring a Legacy

In recognition of his significant contributions, the USC College of Arts and Sciences and the mathematics department honored Solomon with a plaque in LeConte College in 2019. Additionally, just last month, on the historic Horseshoe at USC, a stunning 12-foot bronze monument was unveiled, forever commemorating Solomon’s role in desegregating the university. His spirit and legacy live on proudly on campus.

A Champion for the Community

While many know him for breaking down barriers at USC, Solomon’s service extended far beyond academia. In a historic achievement, he became the first Black elected official in Sumter since the Reconstruction era, serving on the Sumter District 17 school board. He went on to hold key positions as a dean and vice president at Morris College and was influential in organizations like the Columbia Urban League and the United Way of the Midlands.

Solomon’s remarkable leadership did not stop there. He was elected to the Richland County Council and served as the first Black chairman of the Richland School District 1’s school board. His commitment to civic duty twice earned him the prestigious Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in South Carolina, awarded by former governors Richard Riley and Carroll Campbell.

The Legacy Lives On

As people from all walks of life reflect on Solomon’s legacy, state Sen. Tameika Isaac Devine shared heartfelt sentiments, stating, “He will be missed but his legacy lives on.” With every story shared, every life he touched, and every barrier he broke, James L. Solomon Jr. will continue to inspire future generations.

He leaves behind a proud legacy of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice that will forever enrich the fabric of our society. His contributions will echo for years to come, reminding us all of the importance of standing up for what is right.