COLUMBIA, S.C. – Rev. Charles Jackson and Rep. James Clyburn spent time with students from across South Carolina as part of the Virtual Youth Experience on Thursday.

Jackson, senior pastor at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, spoke to the students about the importance of developing community and positive race relations.

“Those of us in the church might want to do some serious soul searching as it relates to race and racism in our lives,” said Jackson. “Is there something in our own lives—in our own hearts—that might keep us from from being a loving person towards those of a different race? I encourage these young people to develop relationships with those around them who might be of a different prospective or a different race … It’s all about developing a sense of community. ”

Clyburn, who represents South Carolina’s sixth congressional district and is the third-ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives, spoke to the students about finding common ground.

“I have a philosophy that I try to live by, that is if the distance between me and my opponent is five steps, I don’t mind taking three of them,” said Clyburn. “I never mind meeting someone more than half way.”

Students were also encouraged to hear of Clyburn’s advocacy for the expansion of accessible and affordable rural broadband. Clyburn described high-speed internet as an essential component of bringing rural America into the 21st century.

You can view highlights from Rev. Jackson’s dialogue here: https://youtu.be/iB9TXhR8HsE

You can view highlights from Rep. Clyburn’s dialogue here: https://youtu.be/HZAITrGLxrQ

A total of 79 students—all rising high school juniors or seniors—are participating in the Virtual Youth Experience. These students represent 19 electric cooperatives across South Carolina.