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A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High 61F. Winds light and variable..
Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Low around 45F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Updated: November 27, 2024 @ 9:54 am
Charles McNeair
Charles McNeair
LEXINGTON – A Lexington man who has been in prison for 45 years, partly due to his lack of education, will have a scholarship named after him, according to his supporters.
The Charles Anthony McNeair Scholarship for Educational Advancement will be awarded to a graduating senior from Lexington Senior High School in May.
The recipient will be a minority student who has demonstrated “exceptional character, resilience, and a passion for education” and has demonstrated a commitment to overcoming obstacles in pursuit of their academic goals, a statement from Advocacy for Charles McNeair said.
“This scholarship honors the legacy of Charles McNeair, whose young life was tragically redirected by racism and illiteracy. His story of 45 years of incarceration, from age 16, has sparked his desire to see the transformative power of education in the lives of marginalized youth,” the statement said.
In 1979, McNeair, who is Black, pleaded guilty to second-degree rape in a case involving a white woman and was sentenced to life in prison. He has said he never committed the crime and accepted the plea deal only to avoid a potential death sentence due to racial bias in the legal system at the time.
McNeair was also illiterate at that time, which his supporters say contributed to his excessive sentencing.
“In recognition of the role that literacy played in his conviction, namely his inability to advocate for himself confidently, this scholarship aims to break down barriers to higher education and provide opportunities for students who may face hardships and academic challenges comparable to those experienced by Charles,” the statement said.
While in prison, McNeair has obtained his GED and completed some college-level certifications.
Advocacy for Charles McNeair members says the scholarship is more than just financial support; it is also a reminder that education can be a pathway to justice, competence, and opportunity.
“Charles’ earnest desire to help young students was birthed out of his tragic circumstances. He wants to ensure that every student, regardless of background, has the resources and opportunities to succeed,” the statement said.
The first recipient of the Charles McNeair Scholarship will be announced in May. Although the scholarship amount has not been disclosed, advocates say it will provide financial support for tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
Applications are available at Lexington Senior High School from Feb. 1 to March 31.
For more information, interested students can reach out to board members of Advocacy for Charles McNeair through the Justice for Charles McNeair Facebook page at www.facebook.com/p/Justice-for-Charles-McNeair-100089553814930/
Charles McNeair
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