Mississippians among those honored
JANS – The Emmett Till Legacy Foundation (ELF) hosted the Women of Courage Awards Gala and fundraiser at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, March 30, 2025. Social justice advocates from across the country came together to celebrate 18 remarkable women who exemplify the strength, resilience, and courage of Mamie Till Mobley.
The 2025 awardees are: Erika Alexander, Iman Muhammad Ali, Adriene Bowles, Barbara Broccoli, Brenda Brody, Marissa Jo Cerar, Chinonye Chukwu, Alexia Clayborne, Danielle Deadwyler, Anya Dillard, Thelma Wright Edwards, Jaribu Hill, Whoopi Goldberg, Dorie Ladner, Joyce Ladner, Alana Mayo, Ann Marie Vanneste, Myrlie Evers-Williams, and Thelma Wright Edwards. At 93, Edwards is Emmett Till’s eldest living relative.
The Gala Chair was April Ellington, co-founder of the Savoy Ellingtons and civil rights activist. Honorary Co-Chairs were Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution; William Cohen, former Secretary of Defense; and Janet Langhart Cohen, award winning journalist.
Funds raised during the Gala will support multiple ELF signature programs and enable it to continue educating, advocating, empowering, inspiring, providing higher education scholarships, and equipping the next generation for a better tomorrow. ELF is also committed to advocating for truth, justice, accountability and legislation that improves the lives, health, and wellbeing of impacted families. In addition, funds will support the 70th anniversary Till Trail of Tears and Terror educational experience and tour in 2025 and further strengthen and advance the legacy of Mamie Till Mobley and Emmett Till and how their global and historical relevance informs us all yet today.
