The Orangeburg Massacre | The World of Cecil

In the final segment of The World of Cecil: Part One, the documentary recounts events from 1968 when students from South Carolina State University, led by John Stroman, attempted to desegregate the All Star Bowling Alley in Orangeburg. The owner, Harry Floyd, refused entry to Black people, claiming exemption from the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Tensions escalated when students were repeatedly denied access, ultimately leading to confrontations near the bowling alley. On February 6, 1968, a violent clash occurred between students and law enforcement, with police beating and opening fire on the unarmed students. Three students were killed, and many were injured. The incident heightened racial tensions in the area. The segment also mentions the aftermath when Cecil Williams, a witness, collected shotgun shell cartridges from the scene.