ATLANTA — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is embarking on a significant expansion, investing nearly $60 million in a renovation that promises to transform the storied museum into a vibrant hub for activism and civil rights education. Unlike government-funded institutions, the center thrives on private support, allowing it to operate freely from political pressures to censor historical narratives.
Set to reopen on November 8, the renovation adds six new galleries, classrooms, and interactive experiences, which will encourage visitors to engage in civil rights advocacy and racial justice discussions. According to Jill Savitt, the center’s president and CEO, the revitalization aims to move beyond static exhibits to create a dynamic atmosphere where people can take actionable steps toward supporting democracy.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Change Agents
Founded by civil rights leaders such as Evelyn Lowery and Andrew Young, the center has become a vital educational resource since its opening in 2014. It had faced challenges during the pandemic, prompting a renewed focus on attracting families and young visitors through interactive programs like the upcoming 'Change Agent Adventure' designed for kids under 12.
Participants will be encouraged to make pledges reflecting their commitment to fostering empathy, justice, and kindness—a core tenet of the center's mission. Advocacy and change-making are contagious, Savitt noted. We want to ignite the desire in children to see themselves as active participants in creating a better world.
Fostering Hope Through Educational Experiences
One of the new exhibits, titled 'Broken Promises,' will open in December and explore the complexities of American progress and setbacks through the lens of post-Civil War Reconstruction. The exhibit includes significant artifacts, like a historical marker from the painful 1918 lynching of Mary Turner, showcasing the resilience of her descendants.
Shaping a Better Democracy
As patrons immerse themselves in historically significant simulations, such as participating in a 1960s sit-in against segregation, they will also be provided spaces for reflection and processing emotions. This thoughtful design is indicative of the center's advocacy for a healthy democracy and active citizenship.
Supported by contributions from philanthropists like Arthur M. Blank and organizations such as the Mellon Foundation, the center’s expansion reflects a collective commitment to educating society about civil and human rights. Savitt emphasizes that understanding citizenship is pivotal for nurturing a vibrant democracy.
Atlanta's National Center for Civil and Human Rights stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment in these challenging times, inspiring visitors not only to learn about the past but to actively engage in building a more equitable future.
