National Center for Civil and Human Rights
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in the City of Atlanta is a new museum celebrating the accomplishments of civil rights and broader human rights movements. The museum opened on June 23, 2014, and is dedicated to educating visitors about the history of the civil rights and human rights movement.
The center is free to visit. It is open to the public Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During these hours, admission to the museum is free. The center has restrooms and water fountains, and the museum also offers a gift shop. Visitors are encouraged to bring headphones for the audio portion of the “Lunch Counter Sit-In” exhibit.
Located near Centennial Olympic Park, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights at Atlanta connects the American Civil Rights Movement with contemporary struggles for human rights around the world. The center’s mission is to educate and empower visitors to participate in the human rights dialogue. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on their role in protecting human rights.
The museum features permanent and temporary exhibits on the history of the civil rights movement in the US. Many shows focus on the contributions of Martin Luther King, Jr., and other prominent civil rights leaders. The center also features displays on current issues surrounding human rights. Whether you are looking for information on the civil rights movement or want to learn more about human rights, the center has something for everyone.
The museum is divided into three floors. The first level houses the MLK papers gallery. The second-level houses exhibit the history of the Civil Rights movement. The upper-level host’s classes and events. The center also features an interactive gallery with a timer that measures how long visitors can place their hands on a counter. The exhibits rotate every three to four months.
Another new wing of the museum will focus on families and children. Despite the new branch, the museum’s original location in the plaza could be more conducive to families with young children. The new gallery will cater to this group and include activities and displays for young visitors.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta promotes human rights and equality. Many people have been fighting for equality throughout history. Human rights champions have taken on influential leaders and endured retaliation. But they have not always used violence. In their human rights efforts, these champions are responsible for fighting for justice and equality.
This center’s design reflects the civil rights movement’s struggles and successes. It is a place to reflect, educate, and take action. It was designed by Philip Freelon, an architect who had worked with HOK, now Perkins+Will. The building features a series of galleries, including one devoted to the American Civil Rights Movement and a separate one to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The interior of the center features immersive activities to engage visitors. The outdoor area includes a beautiful fountain.