From Slavery to Freedom Film Series: “Till”

Presented as part of the From Slavery to Freedom Film Series, “Till” follows the courageous story of Mamie Till’s quest for justice after the murder of her son, Emmett Till, in the summer of 1955, which served as one of the catalysts for the Civil Rights Movement.

In the summer of 1955, 14-year-old Emmett traveled to Mississippi to visit relatives from Chicago. While in Mississippi, he visited Bryant’s store and encountered owner Carolyn Bryant. Emmett went missing that evening and was later found lynched and brutally beaten beyond recognition. When his body was returned to Chicago, Mamie insisted on a public funeral with an open casket to expose the barbarity of the murder. Images of Emmett’s body were later published in Jet magazine to show the world what happened. Mamie’s activism in the wake of her losing her son continued throughout the Bryant’s and is highlighted throughout the film.

Following the screening, there will be a discussion with Benjamin Saulsberry, public engagement and museum education director of the Emmett Till Interpretive Center.

Admission

This virtual screening is free with advance registration.

About the Panelist

Benjamin Saulsberry is a native of West Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. He grew up surrounded by social justice activism, which he credits for his deep care and concern for his community today. Ben joined the Emmett Till Interpretive Center in 2016 and has spoken on race, racism, and racial reconciliation across the country on behalf of the Center, including Harvard Law in 2017, the University of Detroit at Mercy, The John Hope Franklin Center for Reconciliation, Stennis Space Center, and the Educating Children of Color Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado Jan. 2024. He attended Mississippi Valley State University and the University of Mississippi for graduate work in music. He currently serves as Public Engagement and Museum Education Director.