The Overturning of Convictions and the Legacy of the Camp Logan Riot
On Tuesday, November 14, 2023, the community of Houston, Texas, received long-awaited news from the Army. The legacy of the all-Black 3rd Battalion 24th Infantry regiment, which was marred by the 1917 Camp Logan Riot, had finally been recognized and honored. After more than a century of petitioning for clemency for the soldiers who were wrongfully convicted, the Army made a historic decision to clear their names.
The Camp Logan Riot was a dark chapter in the history of racial injustice in the United States. The soldiers, who were stationed at Camp Logan in what is now known as Memorial Park, were confronted by the crippling racism that was pervasive in Houston at the time. An altercation between the soldiers and the police force led to the wrongful court-martial and conviction of 110 Black soldiers, thirteen of whom were executed by hanging.
However, the families of these soldiers never gave up on seeking justice for their loved ones. After years of persistence and advocacy, their efforts finally paid off. The Undersecretary of the Army arrived in Houston to recognize the soldiers’ legacy and issue honorable discharges for them. This long-overdue acknowledgment has brought a sense of closure to the families, providing official recognition that their relatives did not die in vain while serving their country.
One such individual who played a pivotal role in advocating for justice for the soldiers was attorney Jason Holt. He has spent over two decades fighting to clear his great-uncle’s name, Private Thomas Coleman Hawkins. Holt’s dedication to this cause, fueled by a deep sense of family legacy and honor, has finally paid off with the Army’s decision to overturn the convictions of the soldiers.
For Holt and many others who have been affected by the enduring impact of the Camp Logan Riot, this decision represents a profound moment of justice and closure. It is a testament to the power of perseverance and the tireless efforts of those who have worked tirelessly to set the record straight and honor the memory of those who were wronged.
The historic decision by the Army not only corrects a grave injustice but also serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and recognizing the past. By honoring the legacy of the soldiers who suffered at Camp Logan, we acknowledge the enduring impact of systemic racism and the resilience of those who have fought for justice in the face of adversity.
As the community in Houston and beyond continues to reflect on the significance of this moment, it is crucial to embrace the lessons of the past and work towards building a more just and equitable future for all. The overturning of the convictions of the soldiers from the Camp Logan Riot is a pivotal step towards acknowledging the injustices of the past and ensuring that the legacies of those who suffered are honored and remembered.
The recognition of the soldiers’ legacy and the Army’s decision to clear their names stands as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the resilience of those who have fought against injustice. It is a testament to the power of remembrance, advocacy, and the enduring quest for truth and reconciliation in the face of history’s darkest moments.