Youngest American Executed to have a Retrial
As of this year, one hundred years have passed since the youngest person in American history was illegitimately accused of brutally beating and eventually murdering two young Caucasian girls.
The horrifying story begins in spring of 1944, when the two young girls allegedly stopped at George Stinney’s house for assistance in finding a particular flower. When the girls became missing a day later, he explained to law enforcement and other search party members that he had spoken to the girls shortly before the murder. According to newsone.com, he was arrested as soon as the information was released.
The execution took place exactly 8 days after the alleged murder of the two young girls.
Juanita Thadison, founder of Child’s Compass Learning Academy and Nursery School says, “I find it very disturbing that the color of one’s skin can determine whether they live or die. What disturbs me about this situation is that in 1944, almost one hundred years ago, we see the same thing today. There are so many situations where young people of color have lost their lives, their freedom, and their voice because of the color of their skin.”
The trial is currently being renegotiated, and according to The Huffington Post, the request for a new trial is largely symbolic, but Stinney’s supporters say they would prefer exoneration to a pardon.
George Stinney was one of the most influential young people in American history. He, like many other African Americans, struggled with being emotionally and mentally prosecuted before the eyes of society.
George Frieson, quoted by the Huffington Post, states, “The first step in a pardon is to admit you are wrong and ask for forgiveness. This boy did nothing wrong.”
The horrifying story begins in spring of 1944, when the two young girls allegedly stopped at George Stinney’s house for assistance in finding a particular flower. When the girls became missing a day later, he explained to law enforcement and other search party members that he had spoken to the girls shortly before the murder. According to newsone.com, he was arrested as soon as the information was released.
The execution took place exactly 8 days after the alleged murder of the two young girls.
Juanita Thadison, founder of Child’s Compass Learning Academy and Nursery School says, “I find it very disturbing that the color of one’s skin can determine whether they live or die. What disturbs me about this situation is that in 1944, almost one hundred years ago, we see the same thing today. There are so many situations where young people of color have lost their lives, their freedom, and their voice because of the color of their skin.”
The trial is currently being renegotiated, and according to The Huffington Post, the request for a new trial is largely symbolic, but Stinney’s supporters say they would prefer exoneration to a pardon.
George Stinney was one of the most influential young people in American history. He, like many other African Americans, struggled with being emotionally and mentally prosecuted before the eyes of society.
George Frieson, quoted by the Huffington Post, states, “The first step in a pardon is to admit you are wrong and ask for forgiveness. This boy did nothing wrong.”
About The Author
