Visit Jackson has organized a weekend’s worth of events to honor the life of Emmett Till on the 68th anniversary of his death, which served as a turning point in civil-rights history in the United States. Starting on Aug. 25 and ending on Aug. 27, these plans include a screening of Keith Beauchamp’s 2022 film “Till,” an educational tour through Money, Miss., and a worship service honoring Till’s mother, Mamie Till Mobley.
“You will note that there has been a lot of erasure of history, attempts, at least. We are fighting that, but there’s more educating, enlightening, and making sure we’re empowering our
youth, who you will see also throughout this weekend,” Scott McDowell said at a press conference this morning. “We are actually working hand in hand with our youth to make sure people carry this mantle forward and fight injustice where it’s found.”
In 1955, Chicago native Emmett Till, 14, was visiting family in Money, Miss., when he was accused of whistling at a white woman, Carolyn Bryant. Roy Bryant, her husband, and J. W. Milam, her brother-in-law, kidnapped Till from his uncle’s home and brutally murdered Till before dumping his body in the Tallahatchie River.
Emmett Till’s murder motivated a number of Black Americans and allies to increase their efforts during the Civil Rights Movement. Photo courtesy Simeon Wright
To kick off the weekend, city and state representatives held a press conference at the capitol building to present proclamations and recognitions to the family of Emmett Till. Ward 2 Councilwoman Angelique Lee presented a proclamation on behalf of Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba.
“This resolution of the Jackson City Council commemorates the life and legacy of Emmett Till,” Lee said. “Whereas it is our solemn duty to recognize the impact of history’s pivotal moment and individuals who have forever shaped the course of our society. Whereas the life and legacy of Emmett Till stands an enduring testament to the fight against racial prejudice, hatred and injustice.”
Councilwoman Lee also presented a proclamation honoring the legacy of Emmett Till to the Civil Rights Movement. Emmett Till’s murder trial and
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