Emmett Till family marks 71 years since his death

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Emmett Till’s family gathered with state and community leaders to mark 71 years since his death.

The 14-year-old was murdered while visiting family in Mississippi.

Activists began a weekend of events honoring Till and his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley.

Jackson Mayor John Horhn presented the family with a proclamation in Till’s honor.

Loved ones said emotions remain high when remembering his story, no matter how many years have passed.

“It’s very emotional. Sometimes we don’t know how it’s going to come. It comes in waves, and 71 years is a heavy lift for our family and also for the other families too. We just don’t feel it for ourselves; we don’t stand here for just us. But we do know that when Mamie opened the casket 71 years ago that her intent is what we’re feeling today,” said Deborah Watts, Till’s cousin and co-founder of the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation.

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