Women of the Movement

Over the years I had come across the narrative of a black teenager who was killed for interacting with a white woman in the 50s and each time I was incredulous that this had happened. And now, after all this country has been through, it is important to understand the long-standing roots of this behavior. Bravo to ABC for bringing this important story of racism to its viewers. Kudos to the actors for their brave performances. Not everyone grieves by wailing over a casket, some do so by taking action. Don't expect the tears to come when you expect them to.

A lynching I have known of all my life but this narrative just brings a fresh perspective to a new generation. The horror experienced and the strength an older generation had to endure to just survive.

I began watching this series the first night it was aired. However, it wasn't an easy decision. I felt like the subject of Emmet Till's death might be hard to watch play out on television. They have covered his death in other documentaries and in. Lovecraft Country but not as the primary focus. I was concerned with knowing the details and seeing how it happened play out on tv. It's still something that happens today with police brutality and disregard for colored life. I believe the writers and actors did an exceptional job so far by giving the situation the honor and respect that it deserves.

The plight of African-Americans was not the same as it is now. Yes, we still have inequities. We currently have the power to speak up. In that era, the lack of empathy, lack of concern & lack of understanding between the races was extremely high to say the least!

With that said, I loved this movie. Realistic acting, quality reenactments (as best as possible) and credibility given to our black history. They did what needed to be done.

I was 8 years old when Emmitt Tills body was on display in the church on State Street in the 40th hundred block on State Street. My best friends father was a fire fighter in Chicago with 6 daughters. He put his daughters and myself in his 1954 Chevy and took us to the viewing. We stood in line and waited. I was to short to actually see him, so he lifted me up to get a full view. Ms. Mamie stood at the head of her sons casket and wailed continually wailed "Look what they did to my son." I will go to my grave with that picture imprinted on my brain and in my soul which has directed my life. My husband was a student at the school Emmitt attended. His death left a lasting impression on my generation. She was a inspiration in our community. We shared the same barber she was a force to be inspired by. God rest their souls and we need to to act with the strength she displayed.