In the heart of Hilton Head, South Carolina, a battle over land has become a rallying cry for justice, history, and the preservation of Black heritage. At the center of this fight is Josephine Wright, a 93-year-old woman whose quiet strength has inspired celebrities, activists, and strangers across the nation to stand with her as she faces an aggressive legal challenge threatening her family’s legacy.

A Legacy Rooted in History

Josephine Wright’s story is not just about one woman or one family—it’s about the enduring legacy of Black land ownership in the South. Her 1.8-acre property on Hilton Head Island has been in her family since just after the Civil War, an era when formerly enslaved people worked tirelessly to secure land and a future for their descendants. For nearly three decades, Wright has called this land home, tending to her garden, welcoming her grandchildren, and honoring the memory of her ancestors.

But now, that legacy is under threat.

The Legal Battle Begins

The trouble started when Bailey Point Investment LLC, a development company, began building a 147-unit neighborhood adjacent to Wright’s property. The company filed a lawsuit against Wright, claiming property line issues and seeking to encroach on her land. Wright and her family believe the lawsuit is a thinly veiled attempt to pressure her into selling, a tactic that has become all too familiar in historically Black communities facing gentrification and aggressive development.

“They want me to give up my land, but I’m not going anywhere,” Wright told local reporters. “This land means everything to my family. It’s our history, our roots.”

A Community Rallies

As news of Wright’s struggle spread, her granddaughter, Charise Graves, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover mounting legal fees. The family’s initial goal was $250,000—a daunting sum for most, but necessary to stand up against a well-funded developer. The campaign quickly gained traction, drawing support from neighbors, activists, and people moved by Wright’s determination.

But it was the involvement of high-profile Black celebrities that turned Wright’s fight into a national cause.

Kyrie Irving Steps Up

NBA star Kyrie Irving, known for his philanthropy and activism, made headlines when he donated $40,000 to Wright’s GoFundMe campaign. Irving’s gift not only provided a significant financial boost, but also brought national attention to the case. “This is about more than just land,” Irving posted on social media. “It’s about justice, history, and protecting what’s right.”

With Irving’s help, the family raised their fundraising goal to $350,000, determined to see the fight through to the end.

Tyler Perry and the Power of Influence

Movie mogul Tyler Perry, himself a symbol of Black resilience and achievement, also added his voice to the cause. Perry took to his own platforms to highlight Wright’s plight, telling his millions of followers that she “has a village behind her.” Perry’s public support sparked a wave of donations and messages of solidarity, as more people learned about Wright’s story and the broader issue of Black land loss in America.

More Celebrities Join the Fight

The outpouring didn’t stop there. Singer Fantasia, actress Gabrielle Dennis, former Food Network star Gina Neely, gospel icon Tina Campbell, and rapper Meek Mill all used their influence to amplify Wright’s story. Their combined star power brought even more attention to the GoFundMe campaign and the urgent need to protect Black-owned land from predatory development.

Fantasia, who has spoken openly about her own family’s struggles with land loss, called Wright a “queen” and urged her fans to donate. Meek Mill tweeted, “We can’t let them take what our ancestors fought for. Stand with Ms. Josephine.”

The Broader Issue: Black Land Loss in America

Josephine Wright’s battle is part of a much larger, often overlooked crisis. According to the Atlanta Black Star and other sources, Black Americans have lost more than 90% of their farmland over the past century, often due to legal loopholes, forced sales, and discriminatory practices. Developers frequently target elderly landowners, hoping to take advantage of complex property laws or financial hardship.

Wright’s family believes Bailey Point Investment LLC’s lawsuit is a textbook example of this kind of pressure. “They think because she’s 93, they can push her around,” said Charise Graves. “But they picked the wrong grandmother.”

The GoFundMe Campaign: A Beacon of Hope

As of this writing, the GoFundMe campaign has raised over $350,000, thanks to thousands of donors from across the country. The money will go toward legal fees, land surveys, and any other costs Wright incurs as she fights to keep her home. But the campaign has also become a symbol of hope and resistance—a testament to the power of community and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

“We’re so grateful for every donation, every message, every prayer,” said Graves. “It’s not just about the money. It’s about knowing we’re not alone.”

The Power of Celebrity Advocacy

The involvement of celebrities like Kyrie Irving and Tyler Perry has been crucial in elevating Wright’s story. Their support demonstrates how influential voices can bring attention to issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. In an age where social media can amplify injustice as well as hope, their advocacy has inspired many to get involved—and reminded the world that the fight for justice is far from over.

What’s Next for Josephine Wright?

Wright’s legal battle continues, but she remains resolute. Surrounded by family, friends, and a growing “village” of supporters, she is determined to defend her land and her family’s legacy. Her story has inspired conversations about land rights, gentrification, and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in America.

“I’m not fighting just for myself,” Wright said. “I’m fighting for my children, my grandchildren, and every family who’s ever been told they don’t belong.”

A Legacy Worth Defending

Josephine Wright’s fight is about more than a piece of land—it’s about honor, history, and the unbreakable spirit of a woman who refuses to be moved. Thanks to the generosity of celebrities and everyday people alike, she has the resources and the support she needs to keep fighting.

Her story is a powerful reminder that when communities come together, they can stand up to even the most daunting challenges. And as long as people like Josephine Wright are willing to fight, there will always be hope for justice.