National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expands to Inspire Change and Hope

Tue Oct 21 2025 21:58:49 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a bold move against prevailing narratives, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is expanding with a $60 million renovation aimed at promoting civil rights education and inspiring activism among visitors of all ages.

As the National Center for Civil and Human Rights prepares for its grand reopening on November 8 after a $60 million renovation, it seeks to transform the visitor experience with new galleries and interactive exhibits. The expansion reflects a commitment to fostering activism, educating the public on historical injustices, and encouraging hope and agency. Notably, the center's initiatives align with an increased focus on civil rights amidst the tensions surrounding historical narratives in modern America.

ATLANTA (AP) — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta is making a significant leap forward with a $60 million expansion at a pivotal time in the United States. Unlike the Smithsonian Institutions, this privately funded center remains resilient against external pressures regarding educational content, especially in a climate where historical narratives are often contested.

The extensive renovations, set to unveil six new galleries, classrooms, and interactive experiences, aim to transform the museum from a passive exhibit space to a dynamic venue for activism and education. Jill Savitt, the center's president and CEO, emphasizes the importance of engaging the community through civil and human rights initiatives.

The center's recent educational focus includes over 300 online lesson plans, diversity training, LGBTQ+ programs, and the Truth & Transformation Initiative that raises awareness about historical injustices. These programs stand in contrast to current efforts from some quarters to downplay or distort pivotal moments in American history.

Inspiring Young Change Agents

Founded by civil rights leaders Evelyn Lowery and Andrew Young in 2014, the center has evolved into a crucial tourist destination, although ticket sales have suffered post-pandemic. To attract families, the center is introducing the 'Change Agent Adventure,' an initiative aimed at inspiring children under 12 to pledge small actions that contribute to social good.

“Advocacy is addictive,” Savitt explains, stating that when children see the impact of their actions, they are encouraged to pursue further involvement. This educational philosophy differs from protective narratives regarding young people's abilities to confront challenging truths.

Hope Amidst History

One of the new exhibits, 'Broken Promises,' opening in December, will focus on the Reconstruction era, showcasing the struggles of freed people against violent backlash. The display will highlight the resilience of families affected by historical injustices, such as the one related to the lynching of Mary Turner, bringing attention to the ongoing conversation about progress and backlash in American history.

The exhibition will also prominently feature items from Morehouse College's Martin Luther King Jr. collection, including a recreation of King's home office, allowing visitors to connect with King's personal story and his legacy as an activist.

Encouraging Positive Action

By prioritizing stories of human rights victories, rather than focusing solely on atrocities, the center aims to cultivate hope and agency among its visitors. Research suggests that inspiring narratives are more effective in motivating long-term engagement than those focusing solely on despair.

Investing in Democracy

The expansion was made possible through donations from significant figures like Arthur M. Blank and various philanthropic organizations, reflecting a shared commitment to upholding civil rights education in the face of ongoing threats to democratic values. Savitt notes that these efforts are vital for fostering a just and inclusive society.

As the center prepares for its reopening, it stands as a bold statement of activism and hope, encouraging all Americans to engage in the ongoing struggle for social justice and civil rights.