In the 1980s, Former Alabama Governor George Wallace renounced his segregationist ideology and sought reconciliation with civil rights leaders. In 1982 he sought a new term as governor and won the election with substantial support from Black voters. He retired from politics in 1987 because of ill health.
Written by my young cousin Nicolas Johnson in February 2023. Nicolas is currently in one of the most prestigious law schools in America, and one day, Lord willing, he will be a US Supreme Court Associate Justice.
As we prepare to close out Black History Month and celebrate the many milestones, we as black people have achieved, and the progress we have made throughout the past several decades, I think it is important that we discuss former Alabama Governor George Wallace for a moment.
As most of you know, George Wallace was infamous and notorious for being a very blatantly racist governor, and mainly known for standing in the doorway at the University of Alabama’s Foster Auditorium in an attempt to prohibit UA’s first black students from registering for classes. He is also known for being the mastermind behind efforts to subvert peaceful civil rights protests, having frequently utilized police and state troopers to forcefully end such protests.
However, what I’ve come to realize is that George Wallace was one of the very few people from that political era who decided to change his ways. Now, he did do so at a time where he would soon decide on another run for governor and after he became a paraplegic after being shot, but I seem to think he was sincere.
He made it an effort in the late 70s to contact as many civil rights leaders as he could to apologize for his actions and ask for forgiveness, including from late Congressman John Lewis, who was beaten brutally by one of Wallace’s state troopers near the Edmund Pettus Bridge in 1965.
He even walked into Dexter Avenue Memorial Baptist Church completely unannounced in 1979 to apologize to the congregation for the hurt and harm he caused during his time in politics and as governor.
I believe in forgiveness, and I believe in second chances. And though certainly difficult, I do believe people can change for the better. And it seems that George Wallace made good on his second chance during his final stint as governor (see below video link — hope it opens for you).
https://www.facebook.com/100023351453876/videos/3354213758165557/
In closing, I can’t tell you how important Black History is, and of the importance of not omitting any of it. The more we know, the better. The more we continue to talk about Black History, the better off as a society we will be. END
I think about the differences I could have made had I not turned down a job offer with The New South Coalition for a job with the Department of Defense. Hmmm… #2023Retirement #NewOpportunities #Contacts
Nicolas Johnson, Heading To Law School
My Cousin, Nicolas Johnson, A Young Man On A Misson!
MRS. T’S CORNER 
I couldn’t agree more that black history needs to be openly discussed. As a historian, I’ve noticed that it’s something that is really not talked about enough. And I’m glad more people are sharing content like this post to help teach others more about the experiences of African-Americans.
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Pooja, I totally agree with you. Much of the history I am sharing, and have researched to share, is new to me. It was taboo in Montgomery, Alabama to talk about Black history–the hub for slave trading; make sure to read the one posting today at 6:30 PM (first Black mayor of Montgomery, AL). Sadly, some politicians are trying to keep it hidden and not to be taught in classrooms, only water down versions, if approved. So, we have to keep sharing the truth. We can hide our secrets from mankind, but not from the sight of God.
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Yes, I will most definitely read that post. True, I have heard that books talking about black history are even being banned. That’s so ridiculous. True, God sees everything even the things we try so hard to hide.
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It is so sad, Pooja. Have a great day/night and I appreciate the photos.
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Happy to share them and have a great day too.
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Praying for Blessings to your nephew and his journey!
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Thank you, he is such an intelligent young man, and still working with politicians while in law school to bring changes in communities and laws.
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From Saul to Paul!
With a Trail of damage left behind!
It is almost never to late to change while there is life and awareness in the body.
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Best of luck to your nephew. He’s definitely headed in the right direction.
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Thank you, he is such an outstanding and intelligent young man.
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