Embark on a journey of discovery and understanding of America’s civil rights story with a visit to these important landmarks and destinations. Here are five to consider:
1. Unfiltered Truth Collection, Louisville, Kentucky
Established to amplify and celebrate Black heritage in the region, the Kentucky Center for African American Heritage shines a light on the contribution of African American artists, educators and historians. Through art installations, interactive exhibits and provocative works by prominent visual and performing artists, the museum seeks to pay homage to the region’s rich cultural heritage while also addressing contemporary issues. Also of interest in the area: The Roots 101 African American Museum, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Frazier History Museum, all part of Louisville’s Unfiltered Truth Collection, celebrating the impact of African American contributions to the city’s history.
For more: https://www.gotolouisville.com/unfiltered-truth-collection
2. National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Montgomery, Alabama
Sitting atop a rise overlooking Montgomery, the 6-acre memorial was conceived with the hope of creating a meaningful site where people could gather, learn and reflect on America’s history of racial inequality. Using sculpture, art and design to contextualize racial terror, the outdoor memorial and the nearby Legacy Museum are the inspiration of Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative. Both are designed to provide comprehensive content about the legacy of slavery through contemporary issues including the mass incarceration of African American men and the current proliferation of mass shootings. A shuttle service runs between the museum and the memorial.
For more: EJI.org; museumandmemorial.eji.org
3. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Washington, D.C.
Families can seek ongoing inspiration from the words and work of clergyman and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., through a visit to this monument in West Potomac Park. Open 24 hours a day, the memorial, located adjacent to the National Mall near the FDR Memorial and framing views of the Tidal Basin, features quotes extracted from the leader’s eloquent speeches emphasizing four of King’s primary messages: justice, democracy, hope and love. Site tours and Junior Ranger badge activities are available and can help extend the experience for children.
For more: nps.gov/mlkm/planyourvisit
4. Natchez, Mississippi
The story of slavery and African American culture in Natchez is one of the most complex threads of the city’s multifaceted history. The city has 13 National Historic Landmarks and over 1,000 structures on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can delve into the past at the Museum of African American History and Culture on Main Street. Consider a double-decker bus tour (hop on and hop off at various locations) that launches at the Natchez Visitors Center and rolls through the Southern town, passing by many of the most significant landmarks. Narration is provided from the point of view of two slaves who lived during the difficult era when slave trading at local slave markets was a part of daily life.
For more: www.VisitNatchez.org
5. National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, Tennessee
The museum complex includes the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated as well as the building where James Earl Ray fired the shot. The museum seeks to open a dialogue about a history that spans the dark era of slavery through the modern civil rights movement. A family guide is offered to assist adults in discussing the sensitive topics and events that are addressed within the museum.
For more: www.civilrightsmuseum.org
