The house has belonged to her family since the Civil War
Josephine Wright, a 93-year-old resident of South Carolina, finds herself embroiled in a legal dispute over her cherished home, but she is not facing it alone. The determined matriarch of a large family, comprising 40 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and 16 great-great-grandchildren, has garnered the backing of acclaimed filmmaker and philanthropist, Tyler Perry.
Wright recently shared her story with local news outlet WSAV, revealing that developers have been harassing her and pressuring her to sell her property. Her Hilton Head home, which holds immense sentimental value, is where she wants to spend her twilight years, and she is determined to stand her ground against anyone who tries to take that away from her.
According to a report by WSAV, the home owned by Josephine Wright’s family has been in their possession since the aftermath of the Civil War. Her husband’s ancestors were former slaves who gained their freedom with the help of Union soldiers. Unfortunately, a lawsuit has been filed by an investment group responsible for developing the land adjacent to Wright’s property, alleging that certain sections of her home encroach upon their land.
Unfazed by the attempts to intimidate her, Wright defiantly declared, “Perhaps they thought their harassment would break me down, and I would simply surrender. But they underestimate me. I am determined to fight for what rightfully belongs to me.”
News of Josephine Wright’s resilient spirit reached Tyler Perry, who was deeply moved by her story. Taking to Instagram, the 53-year-old actor and filmmaker shared WSAV’s coverage and pledged his support. Quoting Wright’s words, “I’ve pretty much been a fighter all my life,” Perry expressed his determination to help, asking her to inform him of the details so that he can join the fight alongside her.
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Perry’s act of solidarity didn’t go unnoticed. Celebrities such as Meek Mill and Fantasia Barrino praised Perry’s support and offered their own assistance. Mill commented, “Corporate bullying at its finest… this super hero status!” while Barrino declared, “I will stand with you as well, Tyler.”
Demonstrating his exceptional benevolence, Tyler Perry has once again employed his wealth to assist senior citizens in safeguarding their homes. Earlier this year, he made a remarkable donation of $750,000 to prevent the eviction of low-income seniors in Atlanta. This generous contribution is intended to freeze property taxes for a specific group of elderly residents for the next twenty years, accompanied by an annual supplementary donation of approximately $500,000 for the next five years.
Josephine Wright’s courageous fight for her home has captured the hearts of many, and with the support of Tyler Perry and others rallying behind her, she stands a better chance of preserving the place she holds so dear. Together, they are shining a light on the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting the homes and legacies of our cherished elders.
