SPLC Responds to DOJ Decision to Close Emmett Till Investigation

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Yesterday, the Department of Justice closed a reopened investigation into the murder of Emmett Till without filing new charges.  

The following statement is by Tafeni English, Director of the Civil Rights Memorial Center: 

“Our criminal justice system has never been able to provide justice in the tragic death of 14-year-old Emmett Till. Yesterday’s decision makes clear once again that no one involved in the lynching of a teenage Black boy will ever face accountability or consequences.   

“And over sixty-five years after Till’s death, Black boys and girls still face extreme danger by being Black in America. They can face anti-Black crime perpetrated by their neighbors. They can be targeted – even killed – by law enforcement that exists ostensibly to protect them. At school, they face disciplinary measures that criminalize alleged misbehavior and can become involved with the criminal justice system at an early age.  

“The tentacles of white supremacy and anti-Black policies remain in 2021, and we have a lot of work as a nation to do to ensure every child in America is safe and has the opportunity to thrive. 

“Our thoughts are with the family of Emmett Till, and we will continue to stand with them in their pursuit of justice.”