Civic leaders rooting for SCLC to survive problems

Embattled SCLC Dayton chapter chairman Rev. Raliegh Trammell declined comment on mutliple investigations now under way. The SCLC executive board met Thursday, Feb. 25, at 11 Woodward Ave.

Staff photo by Ron Alvey Embattled SCLC Dayton chapter chairman Rev. Raliegh Trammell declined comment on mutliple investigations now under way. The SCLC executive board met Thursday, Feb. 25, at 11 Woodward Ave.

ENLARGE PHOTO

New pool at 'The Heights' opens
5/27/12
Huber Heights suing consultant for more than $50,000
5/26/12
4 arrested for OVI at Kettering checkpoint
5/26/12
Man found dead at bar; police seek suspect
5/26/12
Turner adopts role for Romney campaign
5/26/12
> More headlines

By Tom Beyerlein, Staff Writer Updated 4:07 PM Saturday, March 13, 2010

DAYTON — Its leader is under investigation by the FBI, its public funding for social service programming has been cut off amid allegations of fraud and its moral voice has been choked by scandal.

But despite all the troubles plaguing the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, local civic leaders hope the organization survives.

“I think it would be a major tragedy to this community if SCLC does not continue to live,” said Robert Walker, executive director of the Wesley Community Center, which has partnered with the SCLC in some projects. “There’s still a need for organizations that will advocate on behalf of the voiceless.”

Added Jefferson Twp. activist Willa Bronston: “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. Good work is never dated. They do have a legacy of good work.”

The national SCLC, built in the late 1950s and 1960s by the Rev. Martin Luther King, helped usher in better conditions for blacks through its demonstrations for civil rights, Bronston said. Today’s problems, according to Bronston, “are more subtle and more holistic. We need to concentrate on health and employment and education.”

The Rev. Raleigh Trammell, who heads both the national SCLC and its Dayton chapter, is accused of sexual harassment and financial wrongdoing by members of his national board. No charges have been filed and Trammell denies wrongdoing.

Channon Lemon, director of the Minority Economic Development Council, said economic advancement for minority groups is critical because they are making up an increasing percentage of the U.S. population.

Lemon said an advocate is needed whether or not it is the SCLC.

“A slogan for the SCLC is, ‘Be part of the solution,’ ” Lemon said. “Whether or not SCLC exists, it’s important we all be part of the solution.”

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2264

tbeyerlein@DaytonDailyNews.com.

Share this article