The National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) in Atlanta, Georgia, is a powerful museum dedicated to the achievements of both the civil rights movement in the United States and the broader global human rights movement. By connecting historical struggles for equality to today’s global human rights issues, the museum serves as an educational hub and an inspiring call to action for visitors.
History and Mission
Opened in 2014, the NCCHR is located at Pemberton Place, adjacent to other major attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. The center’s mission is to empower people to take the protection of every human’s rights personally, through immersive exhibits, powerful storytelling, and interactive experiences.
Exhibitions and Features
The NCCHR hosts a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that detail the history of the civil rights movement and human rights issues worldwide:
- Voice to the Voiceless: The Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Collection, where visitors can view personal papers and items from Dr. King.
- Rolls Down Like Water: This gallery focuses on the American civil rights movement, detailing segregation, resistance, and the struggle for equality.
- Spark of Conviction: Explore the modern global human rights movement, learning about the rights of individuals and communities around the world today.
- Shared Accommodations: A historical exhibit that showcases the Jim Crow laws and the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
- Interactive Galleries: Engage with exhibits that allow visitors to participate in a sit-in at a lunch counter or walk in the footsteps of civil rights pioneers.
Location and Contact Information
The NCCHR is located at:
100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
For more information, you can visit the official website at civilandhumanrights.org.
Opening Hours
The center typically operates with the following hours, but it is always best to check the official website for the most current information:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
Admission
Admission fees vary with discounts available for students, seniors, educators, and military personnel. Children under a certain age typically receive free admission, and there may be special promotions and group rates available.
Events and Programs
The NCCHR hosts a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including:
- Lectures and Discussions: Featuring speakers on current civil and human rights topics.
- Book Signings and Film Screenings: Engage with media focused on rights issues.
- Special Exhibits: Temporary exhibits complement the permanent collection with a focus on current and historical human rights issues.
Tips For Visiting
To make the most of your visit to the NCCHR, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check the website for any special events or temporary exhibits that might interest you.
- Allow Time: Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to fully engage with the exhibits.
- Guided Tours: Inquire about guided tours for a more in-depth experience.
- Photography: Check the photography policy before taking pictures inside the museum.
- Accessibility: The center is accessible to visitors with disabilities, and service animals are welcome.
- Public Transportation: Consider using public transportation, as the center is conveniently located near the MARTA transit system.
Conclusion
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is more than just a museum; it’s a space where visitors can connect with the past and become inspired to make a difference in the future. Through its powerful exhibits and educational programs, the center challenges each visitor to reflect on the meaning of civil and human rights today and how they can contribute to a more equitable world for all.
