Opened in 2014 the National Center for Civil and Human Rights stands as a beacon of justice. It inspires each of us to change the world. This Atlanta museum is more than just a building. It is a testament to the ongoing fight for equality.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights believes in justice. It believes in dignity for all. It shows the power of people to make this real. Visitors experience immersive exhibits. They attend dynamic events and conversations. The center also provides engagement and education programs.
Evelyn Lowery and Andrew Young first imagined the center. Shirley Franklin launched it. The center links the US Civil Rights Movement to global struggles. It is one of the few places in the world to do this. The groundbreaking 42000-square-foot facility sits on Pemberton Place. The Coca-Cola Company donated the land. The location is near the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights has a unique structure. Award-winning architect Philip Freelon conceived it. He partnered with HOK now Perkins+Will. The design enhances the visitor experience. It inspires action for civil and human rights movements.
Freelon aimed to represent the center’s vision physically. The curved walls resemble cupped hands. They protect something sacred the dignity of all. The exterior shows many tones like a mosaic. This represents different nationalities working together.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is committed to diversity. It embraces equity and inclusion. The center honors every individual’s identity. It values perspective and abilities. These are critical to moving society forward. The goal is equal dignity for all. The center believes diversity strengthens the organization. This includes race ethnicity and national origin. It also encompasses sexual orientation gender identity age ability socioeconomic status and faith.
Inside the National Center for Civil and Human Rights explore three levels of exhibits. The main entrance is on the lobby level. This level hosts the US Civil Rights exhibition.
The lower level displays items from the Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Collection. This is in the Voice to the Voiceless Gallery. A multipurpose event space overlooks the lower plaza. You can even rent this space for private parties.
The top level houses the Spark of Conviction exhibit. This is the global human rights exhibition. A mezzanine overlooks Pemberton Place. From here you can see Centennial Olympic Park and downtown Atlanta.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights exhibitions are iconic. They feature papers and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. They tell the history of the US civil rights movement. They share stories from the struggle for human rights worldwide.
The Voice to the Voiceless exhibit showcases personal effects of Dr. King. The Rolls Down Like Water exhibit is interactive. It shows segregation and the Civil Rights Movement. Spark of Conviction explores global human rights struggles.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights hosts performances. It has book talks and lectures. Brave conversations happen in the building and online. The center’s education program brings history alive for students. It provides teachers with tools to teach civil rights. It provokes critical thinking about democratic practice. The Advocacy Academy trains students and leaders to engage in civic life.
The building was designed with sustainability in mind. It features a green roof. Plazas flank the building. One welcomes people from Pemberton Place. The rear plaza features a water sculpture. Etched quotations from Nelson Mandela and Margaret Mead adorn it.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights stands as a testament to progress. It serves as a constant reminder of the work still to be done. As you leave remember the center’s mission. Strive for justice and dignity for all.