Join Wright Thompson in Supporting ETIC's Inaugural Annual Fund

A Note from Wright Thompson, Our Inaugural Annual Fund Chair

My name is Wright Thompson, and I’m proud to serve as Chair of the 2026 Annual Fund Inaugural Campaign for the Emmett Till Interpretive Center (ETIC). I write books and make television shows and documentaries, and I got to know the remarkable team at ETIC while writing about their work to preserve historical sites around the Mississippi Delta, including the courthouse in Sumner and the barn outside Drew. I’m reaching out to ask for your help in supporting their essential mission.

From their small office in Sumner, Mississippi, with a small but dedicated staff, ETIC has taken on some of the most powerful forces in American politics and public life. This is a true underdog story, and it’s just the beginning. They are actively working to protect the fragile history of Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley, a task that requires ever-growing resources, especially at a time when public investment in history is declining.

ETIC’s impact is far-reaching. They lead tours, mobilize a traveling exhibit telling Emmett and Mamie’s story, and advocate, both publicly and behind the scenes, for the protection of this vital history. But the work is far from finished. Looking ahead to next year, the organization faces even greater challenges in preserving history and ensuring that the legacies of Emmett and Mamie Till-Mobley live on for generations to come. To meet these challenges, we are launching a 2026 Annual Fund with a goal of raising $150,000 by October 31, 2026. These funds are critical—they ensure that we keep our doors open and our programs running every single day.

To lead the way, I am personally kicking off this year’s campaign with a $10,000 gift because I believe in the work ETIC is doing; work that is nonpartisan and bridges political, racial, economic, and geographic divides. In many cases, the people who support this mission agree on virtually nothing else, which makes the work even more urgent and important. ETIC represents the best of us and offers a path back together. This mission could not be more vital.

If you are so moved and able, I know these are challenging times, please consider making a donation today. Send a dollar. Send ten thousand dollars. Every penny counts, as does every person who believes this work matters. Giving is easy; just scan the QR code below for a direct link to our donation page. If you’re not able to give this year, there are still many meaningful ways to contribute: say a prayer, say Emmett Till’s name, tell his story to someone new, volunteer in your own community, or come visit the Delta and see this sacred ground for yourself.

Thank you for your generosity, your partnership, and your commitment to the Emmett Till Interpretive Center.

With gratitude,

Wright Thompson Chair, 2026 Annual Fund Inaugural Campaign Emmett Till Interpretive Center