The bill, H. 4372, is a House Resolution that commends Cecil J. Williams of Orangeburg County for his significant contributions to documenting the Civil Rights Movement in South Carolina through his photography. It highlights his efforts to ensure that the state's role in this pivotal historical period is accurately recognized. Williams, who began photographing social issues in his community as a youth, has chronicled key events and figures in the Civil Rights Movement, including the Briggs v. Elliott lawsuit and various protests and demonstrations. His work has been featured in both national and local publications, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of individuals fighting for civil rights.
Additionally, the resolution congratulates Williams on the upcoming expansion of the South Carolina Civil Rights Museum, which he founded in 2019 to display his photographs and memorabilia related to the Civil Rights Movement. The museum will be relocating to a larger space at Railroad Corner in downtown Orangeburg, a site deemed historically significant for educating the public about South Carolina's contributions to civil rights. The resolution expresses the House of Representatives' appreciation for Williams' dedication and the importance of his work in preserving this vital aspect of history.