National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expands Amid Historical Challenges

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is undergoing a significant expansion, set to reopen on November 8, 2023. This privately funded museum is adding nearly $60 million worth of renovations, which will introduce six new galleries, classrooms, and interactive experiences. This transformation aims to create a more dynamic environment that encourages visitors to actively engage in civil and human rights issues, particularly in a time when discussions about these topics have become increasingly contentious in the United States.

Jill Savitt, the center’s president and CEO, emphasized the importance of this expansion. The center has remained active during the renovation period by offering over 300 online lesson plans for K-12 education, an LGBTQ+ Institute, and various training programs in diversity, equity, and inclusion. These initiatives illustrate the center’s commitment to addressing historical injustices and promoting awareness of civil rights issues that some political movements seek to minimize.

Engaging the Next Generation of Activists

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights, which opened in 2014 on land donated by the Coca-Cola Company, was envisioned by civil rights leaders such as Evelyn Lowery and Andrew Young. With ticket sales declining due to the pandemic, the center aims to attract visitors with engaging experiences like the “Change Agent Adventure,” designed for children under 12. This initiative encourages young visitors to pledge small actions that promote empathy, justice, and kindness, fostering a sense of responsibility towards societal issues.

“The history that we tell here is the most inspirational history,” Savitt stated. “It is what makes America great.” She highlighted the center’s focus on the activists who have shaped democracy through nonviolent means, contrasting this with narratives that suggest young people should be shielded from uncomfortable truths. The center believes that understanding historical struggles can empower future generations to advocate for change.

Exhibits Reflecting America’s Complex History

The upcoming exhibit titled “Broken Promises,” which opens in December, will showcase artifacts from the post-Civil War Reconstruction era. This period, marked by significant progress for formerly enslaved individuals, was also characterized by violent backlash from white supremacist groups. Curator Kama Pierce aims to engage visitors in a dialogue about the cyclical nature of progress and regression in American history.

One poignant feature of the exhibit will be a historical marker from the site of the 1918 lynching of Mary Turner, donated by her descendants. The marker, bearing bullet holes, serves as a powerful reminder of the violence faced by African Americans throughout history. Additionally, the center will prominently display items from the Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. collection, including a recreation of King’s home office, enriched by family photos contributed by his daughter, the Rev. Bernice King.

Savitt explained that the updated exhibits will focus on human rights victories rather than highlighting figures associated with genocide. The goal is to inspire hope and agency rather than provoke apathy. “If you give people something to hope for, you’re more likely to cultivate a sense of agency in people,” she remarked.

The expansion has garnered support from various donors, including Home Depot co-founder and philanthropist Arthur M. Blank, and the Mellon Foundation. Savitt expressed gratitude for their contributions, noting that the corporate community is increasingly aware of the need to promote civil and human rights education, especially at a time when these topics face scrutiny.

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is poised to play a significant role in shaping public understanding of citizenship and democracy. As it prepares to welcome visitors to its expanded facilities, it aspires to be a beacon of inspiration and action, encouraging individuals to participate in the ongoing journey toward equality and justice.