Every summer, Fannie Lou Hamer Professor of Rhetorical Studies Davis Houck leads students to the Mississippi Delta to document the region’s civil rights stories. This year marked the 21st anniversary of the trip, highlighted by milestones that have distinguished it from previous years to further strengthen the tradition.

During the two-week workshops, students learn the fundamentals of documentary filmmaking, from conducting interviews to researching. Beyond class time, students have the ability to create their own projects while exploring the history and landscape of Mississippi. “[The students] learn great skills and can immediately monetize those skills if they’d like. I keep going back to continue my research and to work with local students documenting the region’s civil rights stories. Plus, it’s a really beautiful place,” Houck said. 

This year was notable for a special guest visit from Dean Michelle Kazmer. For Kazmer, the experience was both professionally and personally impactful. “It was a day of listening and observing and I was grateful to be included and to have this opportunity,” she said. “It was important to me that I got the opportunity to visit several key places associated with the Emmett Till murder, and to learn from several local experts in Mississippi.” Reflecting on the program, Kazmer stated, “Our work with students is core to what we do as a college.” 

This year additionally brought a significant contribution to the Emmett Till Archives at Florida State University. New primary source documents related to the Till case were gifted to the University, providing invaluable materials for future research and education. 

Professor Houck’s annual visits to the Mississippi Delta truly serve as a powerful testament to the University’s dedication to long-term partnerships, and the ongoing exploration of civil rights history.