Ep 3. Greensboro: Clash with the Klan

In "Greensboro: Clash with the Klan," the third episode of City Confidential's fourth season, viewers are taken to Greensboro, North Carolina in 1979 where tensions between the Ku Klux Klan and members of the Communist Workers Party came to a boiling point during a peaceful anti-Klan rally. The episode begins with a historical context of the town, which saw significant changes during the Civil Rights movement.

After introducing the main players of the story, the Anti-Klan protesters and the Klan members, the episode then delves into the lead up to the tragic events that occurred that day. Key figures in the Communist Workers Party, including Sandra Smith, who organized the anti-Klan rallies, are featured, and we see footage of her and her colleagues speaking out against racial injustice.

As the tension builds, the Klan becomes increasingly agitated, stoking fear among the residents of Greensboro. The Communist Workers Party rallies together with members of the Black Panther organization, and as they prepare for the rally, the Klan plots a deadly attack.

The day of the rally, tensions are high as both sides face off against each other. In a shocking turn of events, the Klan emerges from their hiding places and open fire on the protesters, killing five of them and injuring several others. The episode details the aftermath of the shooting and the resulting trials of the Klan members who participated.

What makes "Greensboro: Clash with the Klan" such a compelling episode is the way it examines the role of politics and race in small town America. It's a story of oppression, resistance, and ultimately, a tragedy that ended in senseless violence. City Confidential effectively weaves together eyewitness accounts, archival footage, and interviews with key figures involved in the event to create a powerful and moving portrayal of a dark moment in American history.

Despite being rooted in events that occurred over forty years ago, the themes of "Greensboro: Clash with the Klan" are still relevant today. Issues of racial tension, political division, and social unrest are still prevalent in not only Greensboro but in many areas of America. This episode serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and coming together to fight for what is right.

Overall, "Greensboro: Clash with the Klan" is an emotionally charged and thought-provoking episode that expertly captures the complexities of a tragic moment in history. From the buildup to the event itself and the aftermath, viewers will be glued to their screens as they bear witness to a tale of fear, violence, and ultimately, triumph over hate.