As Juneteenth approaches, many parents are looking for ways to talk to their kids about our history - not just the joy of freedom, but the truth about what our ancestors have endured. Emmett Till’s name is trending again on social media, and we're going to turn this into a good reason: his story still resonates, and sadly, still reflects the racism that Black children and families face today.
Talking about what happened to Emmett Till can feel overwhelming - especially if your kids are young. But teaching our children the truth, in a developmentally appropriate and loving way, helps build empathy, awareness, and a sense of justice they’ll carry for life.
Keep things simple and emotional. Focus on fairness and kindness.
What to Say:
"Emmett was a boy who looked like you. He was treated very unfairly because of the color of his skin. That’s not okay. Today, we remember Emmett so we can help the world be more fair and kind."
Book Recommendations:
"A Is for Activist" by Innosanto Nagara (Intro to justice language)
"We’re Different, We’re the Same" (Sesame Street classic on diversity)
Offer gentle truth with room for questions. Don’t focus on violence — focus on the injustice and what changed because of it.
What to Say:
"Emmett was a 14-year-old boy visiting family in Mississippi. Some people believed he did something wrong — but he didn’t. They hurt him very badly because of his skin color. His mother, Mamie, showed the world what they did, and it helped people realize things had to change."
Book Recommendation:
At this age, they can begin to understand the deeper context: segregation, injustice, and how Mamie Till’s bravery helped spark the Civil Rights Movement.
What to Say:
"Emmett was only 14 when he was murdered because of racism. His mother chose to show the world what happened, and people were outraged. Her decision led to real change. We talk about Emmett because his story reminds us to speak up and never be silent about injustice."
Book Recommendations:
"Getting Away with Murder: The True Story of the Emmett Till Case" by Chris Crowe
Teens are ready to explore the full weight of Emmett’s story, including court failures, media response, and how this connects to modern movements like #BlackLivesMatter.
Book Recommendations:
"A Wreath for Emmett Till" by Marilyn Nelson (powerful poetry for older readers)
"Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi
Encourage open conversation. Ask them how they feel. Remind them they have power - to vote, to speak out, to create change.
Sometimes, we as parents need time and space to process history too. These books offer insight, healing, and strength:
Watch the Emmett Till documentary or Women of the Movement (for mature teens and adults).
Light a candle or say his name on Juneteenth.
Connect his story to current events and affirm: We fight for a future where no child is ever treated like Emmett.
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Helping Parents Talk About Hard History With Love, Truth, and Hope
Why Talk About Emmett Till?
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Amber Bowie
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