WHEREAS, South Carolina has a rich diversity of historic buildings, structures, and sites illustrating South Carolina African American heritage; and

WHEREAS, historic properties help present and future generations understand our past and remind us of the aspirations, ingenuity, and courage of our forefathers; and

WHEREAS, these historic properties are being lost or substantially altered with increased frequency; and

WHEREAS, the South Carolina Department of Archives and History shall encourage and assist South Carolina's citizens with identifying and preserving these significant properties; and

WHEREAS, in the face of increasing threats, it is necessary to enhance the Department of Archives and History's efforts to identify, promote, and preserve these irreplaceable properties.

NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby establish the South Carolina African American Heritage Commission ("Commission") to identify and promote the preservation of historic sites, structures, buildings and culture of the African American experience in South Carolina.

1. The Commission shall assist and enhance the efforts of the South Carolina Department of Archives and History and other state agencies to identify, preserve, promote, and interpret the State's African American heritage.

2. The Commission shall consist of 15 members, representing all geographic areas of the state, appointed to staggered terms by the South Carolina Archives and History Commission.

3. The Commission shall elect a chair at its first scheduled meeting.

4. The Commission shall include non-voting associated members who must be kept informed of Commission activities and will form a network of individuals and groups across the State who are interested in the preservation of properties associated with African American History.

5. The Commission shall have one non-voting associated member to represent the Office of Governor.

6. The Commission shall meet quarterly and shall plan activities to carry out its mission.

7. The Commission shall establish bylaws for appointed members, elected officers and conducting meetings.

8. The South Carolina Department of Archives and History staff shall advise and assist the Commission.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 14th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2001.

JIM HODGES
Governor

Last Updated: Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 10:33 A.M.