The Historic Run for Congress
If you are a South Carolina Democrat like me, you may not be used to hearing much good news, but lately, the Democratic news in our state has been quite favorable. First, South Carolina scored big with the reshuffling of the Democratic primary calendar, which moved us to the top spot making us the first Democratic primary contest for the 2024 election cycle. This move is sure to give the state a huge economic boost.
But the good news doesn’t stop there. We now have even more reason to celebrate with the recent announcement of a historic run for Congress that could mean far more to black voters than simply adding another seat to the Democratic side of the aisle if he’s able to pull off a win.
Michael B. Moore, the great-great-grandson of Robert Smalls and former president and CEO of the International African American Museum, is preparing to launch his campaign to run for South Carolina’s 1st congressional district, currently held by Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace. We can expect a formal announcement in the upcoming weeks. The district spans from Charleston to Hilton Head Island and runs along South Carolina’s coast.
The Legacy of Robert Smalls
Moore’s family history is an important aspect of his candidacy. Robert Smalls’ story is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Black people in the face of oppression. As a former slave who was conscripted into Confederate service, Smalls risked his life to escape with his family and other enslaved people on a stolen steamer, eventually turning the ship over to the Union Army.
Following his heroic actions during the Civil War, Smalls went on to serve as a U.S. Congressman. He was first elected to Congress in 1874 and served two non-consecutive terms. Smalls represented South Carolina’s 5th congressional district from 1875 to 1879 and later served in the 7th congressional district from 1884 to 1887. Despite facing gerrymandered district boundaries during his second term, which diluted the Black vote, Smalls still won the election for the newly redrawn 7th district, which had a substantial white majority.
Moore’s family also includes SC lawyer and legislator Samuel Jones Bampfield, and Judge Harold Boulware, who litigated the Briggs v. Elliott case and served on the legal team that won Brown v. Board of Education. Moore’s own career reflects his family’s legacy of activism and public service, as he has served in leadership roles in business, non-profits, and community organizations.
Michael B. Moore’s Background and Experience
Moore’s campaign emphasizes not only his family history but also his diverse background in both the private and non-profit sectors. He has held leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies such as Coca-Cola and Kraft, as well as entrepreneurial ventures like Blackbaud Inc. Additionally, he served as CEO of Glory Foods and the founding president and CEO of the International African American Museum. This blend of experience provides Moore with a unique perspective on the challenges facing South Carolina and the nation.
Moore’s commitment to his community is also evident in his volunteer work and board memberships. He has served on multiple nonprofit boards and currently chairs the Board of Trustees at St. Mark’s School. He has been recognized as one of Charleston Business Magazine’s 50 Most Influential and was honored with “Michael Boulware Moore Day” by the City of Charleston.
A Candidate that Exemplifies Compassionate Patriotism
Moore’s candidacy for Congress is not only about his impressive qualifications and experiences but also about his commitment to protecting and celebrating the diverse history of America. His willingness to embrace the entire history of the United States, acknowledging both the accomplishments and struggles that have shaped the nation. As an African American man, Moore understands the importance of telling the stories of his ancestors and educating others about the contributions of Black Americans to the country’s history and culture. His commitment to compassionate patriotism, which includes acknowledging the wrongs of the past while working towards a brighter future for all citizens, is a rare and valuable trait in any leader.
If elected to Congress, Moore would be a powerful voice for progress, equality, and justice. He would bring a fresh perspective and a deep understanding of the issues that affect people’s lives on a daily basis. Moreover, his election would be a symbol of hope for all Americans, a sign that we can come together as a nation and embrace our shared history and values. Moore is the kind of candidate we need in Congress – someone who is both highly qualified and deeply committed to the well-being of all citizens.
A Beacon of Hope for South Carolina’s Future
Moore’s candidacy is a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all Americans, as it symbolizes a new chapter in our country’s history. With Moore’s unique blend of experiences in both the private and non-profit sectors, he is the embodiment of the American Dream and the perfect candidate to represent the people of South Carolina in Congress. He has shown through his leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurial ventures, as well as his work in the non-profit sector, that he has the skills and experience necessary to make a real difference in the lives of all South Carolinians.
In this current moment of division and polarization, Moore’s candidacy offers a way forward. He recognizes the need to embrace the complexity of our history, and his commitment to education and uplifting the stories of Black Americans is a shining example of the kind of altruistic leadership we need in a political leader. If elected to Congress, it is no doubt that Moore would be an advocate for all Americans and work tirelessly to create a more equitable and just society. His dedication to education and uplifting the stories of our ancestors, while simultaneously paving the way for their descendants to have access to the opportunities of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which many of our ancestors were denied, makes him the kind of leader we need in Congress.
