GLENDORA — The Emmett Till Historic Intrepid Center (ETHIC) will host a garden groundbreaking ceremony, “Blooming Together: Rooted in Remembrance, Growing in Hope,” this Saturday, Oct. 24, at noon, at 235 Thomas Street in Glendora.
Congressman Bennie Thompson will provide the keynote address, and local faith leaders will lead the community in prayer honoring young lives lost to violence.
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS)
The event will launch the development of a new Community Healing, Reflection & Meditation Garden funded by a $25,000 grant received by ETHIC through America in Bloom (AIB) in partnership with Canadian National Railway to support community beautification along railway corridors.
Open to people of all faiths, it will bring the community together to remember lives lost, acknowledge the historical significance of the site, pray for healing and strengthen the collective commitment to ending youth violence.
The garden represents a significant step toward transforming ETHIC’s grounds into a welcoming space for remembrance, reflection, healing and hope. While honoring the life and tragic death of Emmett Till, the garden will also commemorate young people whose lives have been lost to violence across the Mississippi Delta.
“This initiative is about more than beautification,” said Sharon Hill, ETHIC’s executive director. “It is an opportunity to enhance the quality of life in Glendora while creating a lasting place where people can remember, reflect, pray and find hope. We envision a garden that honors lives lost to violence and inspires a renewed commitment to healing and peace.”
A central feature of the event will be a community prayer vigil led by local faith leaders: Rev. Anthony Hawkins of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Mound Bayou; Rev. Winfred Hill of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Glendora and Frierson Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Tutwiler; Rev. R.C. Chambers of Persimmon Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Glendora; Rev. Sylvester Walker and Minister Annette Walker of New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church in Webb; and Elder Johnny Lee Gary Jr., pastor of Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ in Glendora.
Additional participants joining Congressman Thompson at the event will include state Rep. Tracey Rosebud, Glendora Mayor Johnny Thomas and ETHIC Board Chair Everett Penn. Representing America in Bloom are Director Laura Kunkle and Marvin Miller, AIB grant committee chair.
“Through this initiative, ETHIC seeks to cultivate not only a more beautiful community, but also a lasting place of remembrance and renewal — where grief can be acknowledged, lives celebrated, and hope for future generations nurtured,” Hill said.
Families and loved ones who have lost someone to violence are especially encouraged to attend and bring photographs, commemorative T-shirts or other meaningful items to honor their loved ones. An outdoor event, organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs. Food will be available for purchase.
For more information about Saturday, contact Hill at sharon@emmett-till-ethic.org or visit emmett-till-ethic.org.
