Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Established	November 1992
Location	Birmingham, Alabama, United States
Type	History museum
Website	www.bcri.org

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) is a cultural and educational research center that depicts the struggles of the American Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Located in Birmingham, Alabama, the institute is part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and serves as a significant resource for understanding the history and impact of the civil rights movement in the United States.

History

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute was established in November 1992, following years of planning and development. The institute was created to commemorate the pivotal role that Birmingham played in the civil rights movement, particularly during the 1960s. The city was a focal point for civil rights activities, including the Birmingham campaign and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.

Exhibits

The institute features a variety of exhibits that provide a comprehensive overview of the civil rights movement. These exhibits include:

• The Movement Gallery: This gallery chronicles the events of the civil rights movement, highlighting key figures and moments that shaped the struggle for equality.
• The Confrontation Gallery: This exhibit focuses on the confrontations between civil rights activists and segregationists, including the use of nonviolent protest and the violent responses they often provoked.
• The Human Rights Gallery: This gallery connects the American civil rights movement to global human rights struggles, emphasizing the universal quest for freedom and justice.

Educational Programs

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute offers a range of educational programs designed to engage students, educators, and the general public. These programs include workshops, lectures, and guided tours that provide deeper insights into the history and legacy of the civil rights movement.

Community Impact

The institute plays a vital role in the Birmingham community by promoting dialogue and understanding about civil rights issues. It serves as a gathering place for discussions on contemporary social justice issues and fosters a greater appreciation for the ongoing struggle for equality.

Recognition

In 2017, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute became part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, a designation that recognizes the historical significance of the sites associated with the civil rights movement in Birmingham.

See also

• Civil Rights Movement
• 16th Street Baptist Church
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Rosa Parks

External links

• Official website