ATLANTA (AP) — At a pivotal time in America, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is undergoing a major expansion, funded entirely through private sources. This renovation stands in contrast to federally funded institutions subject to political influence. The nearly $60 million project will introduce six new galleries, classrooms, and interactive experiences, transforming the museum into an active hub for civil rights advocacy.
With a reopening date set for November 8, the center has remained engaged in the community through various K-12 education programs, including over 300 online lesson plans and initiatives in diversity and inclusion. Programs like the Truth & Transformation Initiative aim to highlight historical injustices and promote awareness.
Inspiring Children as Future Advocates
Founded by civil rights leaders, including Evelyn Lowery and Andrew Young, the center seeks to inspire a new generation to become ‘change agents.’ With the new immersive gallery, “Change Agent Adventure,” children under 12 are encouraged to pledge small actions toward justice and empathy. This initiative is part of a broader effort to counter narratives suggesting that young people should be shielded from difficult truths.
“Advocacy is contagious,” said Jill Savitt, the center’s president. The educational aim is to instill a sense of involvement and hopefulness among young visitors, showcasing civil rights history as a source of national pride.
Exhibits of Resilience and Progress
The upcoming exhibit, “Broken Promises,” will address the turbulent legacy of Reconstruction and the ongoing fight against systemic racism. It will feature a historical marker from a tragic local lynching, symbolizing resilience in the face of injustice. The collection will also include artifacts from Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, giving personal context to his monumental impact on civil rights.
Importantly, the center will focus on narratives of triumph in human rights rather than dwelling solely on historical atrocities. Emphasizing this positive approach aligns with research suggesting that fostering hope can motivate active citizenship.
Fostering Democratic Engagement
The expansion seeks to enrich the public’s understanding of democracy and citizenship. Visitors can participate in simulated experiences, including a recreation of a 1960s sit-in, intended to provoke deep reflection on civil rights struggles. Supported by philanthropic contributions from figures like Home Depot co-founder Arthur M. Blank, the center’s mission is to cultivate a well-informed public that values democracy and inclusion.
“The question of who gets to participate in democracy is crucial,” Savitt explained. “Our donors share a commitment to promoting civil and human rights education as vital to sustaining a vibrant society.”
