The Legacy of Emmett Till: Understanding History From Four Perspectives
April 19, 2016 at Okemos High School
This free event, which was presented during the school day for OHS students and again in the evening for the community, featured a panel discussion highlighting the unique viewpoints of:
Wheeler Parker, Emmett Till’s cousin who was present during the incident, brings history to life by sharing his first-hand account of the “whistling” encounter and Emmett’s kidnapping.
Dr. Chris Crowe, author and Brigham Young University professor, offers an historical perspective based on his extensive research of both this event and the Civil Rights Movement.
Dale Killinger (via recorded video), the FBI agent who reopened the case in 2004, shares the forensic evidence that he uncovered during his investigation.
Dr. Tamara Butler, Michigan State University Assistant Professor of English, African American and African Studies program offers insight into why this event is relevant today by exploring parallel cases in the news.
Moderated by Kristina Marshall, JD, Professor of Social Sciences at Baker College of Owosso
The Okemos Education Foundation is grateful to the following individual and business sponsors for helping us bring this valuable educational experience to our students and to our community.
Thank you!
Dinner Sponsor: Joel C. Peterson
Platinum Sponsors: Courtesy Ford, Rod Ellis (Okemos Class of 1965)
Silver Sponsors: Doctor’s Approach Dermatology, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, Great Lakes Hand Surgery Center, Dr. William Truluck, Kia of Lansing (Skip and Rachael Young)
Bronze Sponsors: CASE Credit Union, Granger Construction, Martha Hentz & Chris Buck, Independent Bank, Martha & Lee Kliebert, MSU Federal Credit Union, David Shorter, Sparrow Health System, Jeff Theuer & Sally Sproat, White Schneider PC
Friends: Catherine J. Ash, Susan Bathke, Deb & Mick Baughman, Sue Hallman, Margaret E. Haynes, June & Scott Hicks, Josh & Kristin Hundt, Dante Ianni, Pamela Kliewer, John & Michelle Mitchell, Minesh & Hina Mody, Ron & Georgia Styka
Supporters: Susan J. Black, Karen Brown, Mark & Kim Burzych, Donna Kregelka, James & Pamela Neal, Christine Peterson, Mr. Ralph Sims, Antoinette & Stuart Tessmer, Janet McLaughlin-Williams & Charles Williams
In Memory of: Emmett Till
In-Kind Donations: avani-design, Dusty’s Cellar, Holiday Inn Express-Okemos, Sudar Photography
