Another Segregationist Outrage in Mississippi

Clyde Kennard was a victim of place, time, and pride; and Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour refuses to right a wrong, even though it is fully within his power to do so, and it would be the right, the just thing to do.

Clyde Kennard was a black man and a veteran of the Korean War. As a veteran, he was entitled to the benefits of the G.I. Bill of Rights. His only crime was being uppity in a time and place where the white south much preferred to keep its foot on his throat, and would do so by any means necessary. He angered the rabid racists of white Mississippi by attempting to enroll in the all-white University of Southern Mississippi. Repeatedly.

This drew the ire of Mississippi’s gatekeepers of segregation, and Mr. Kennard was arrested on trumped-up charges of reckless driving and possession of whiskey. When the charges did not stand up, Mr. Kennard was arrested and charged with purchasing $25 worth of chicken feed he knew to be stolen. Mr. Kennard was sentenced to seven years in the state penitentiary in 1960. He was released in 1963 for health reasons. He died of cancer soon after his release. The only witness has repeatedly recanted his testimony. There is no doubt of Mr. Kennard’s innocence.

Haley Barbour refuses to right this wrong. He has never pardoned anyone, living or dead, and besides that, “The Governor seems to think Kennard’s rights would have been restored prior to him being governor, if he was still alive.” said his spokesman.

That is hands down the absolute worst excuse I have ever heard, and I raised three kids. I have heard some fantastic tales. Because the wrong was not set right during the man’s life, it doesn’t matter? What a disgusting attempt to pass the buck and avoid doing the right thing!

Governor Barbour, for the love of that God you tout at every turn, pardon this man and let him rest in peace.