SUMMER 2020
In this issue: NCRM Reopens - Smithsonian Exhbit - Freedom Keepers Established - Census 2020
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Are we there yet? That’s how I feel as I write this letter. Frustration and anxiety at the lack of progress we seem to be making in our nation around all things racial. We are asking the same question today Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. posed in 1968, Where do we go from here? This time, we ask not only as it relates to continued social injustice, but to a pandemic with health, social and economic implications that of course carry a higher burden for Black and brown people.
THE NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM
REOPENS WITH SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
The National Civil Rights Museum reopened to the public July 1, 2020 with changes and guidelines for visitor and staff safety. The hours of operation, as well as the free period for Tennessee residents, have been adjusted with the Museum remaining closed on Tuesday and Sunday. However, the most impactful changes happen on the Museum exhibit floor. Initially, guided tours will be limited, but interpretation and education is no longer limited to inside of the Museum. Guides are also conducting talks outdoors on the courtyard weather permitting. Masks are required for entry, but guests who don’t have a mask upon arrival will be provided with one by the Museum. Hand sanitizer dispensers are placed through the building and hightouch areas. If you are interested in visiting the Museum, please purchase your tickets online at www.civilrightsmuseum.org to enjoy a timed visit. This will allow for proper social distancing while you enjoy the tour.
In the past months since our closing and now reopening, we’ve mourned the killings of our brothers and sister, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks and Breonna Taylor. And most recently, we’ve seen the police shoot a Black man in the back seven times and have yet to be told why. We’ve debated the removal of Confederate monuments, and the Museum has continued to demonstrate the Power of Place by being a meeting place for peaceful protests. We have also lost iconic architects of the Movement -- Rev. C.T. Vivian and Congressman John Lewis. It’s in these turbulent times when history unfortunately seems to repeat itself that we are reminded that there is so much more work to be done. Through your support and action, you, our friends and donors, have shown us that you, too, think our work is important. We are excited to reopen our doors, and we have taken the recommended safety precautions and measures to ensure your safe visit to the National Civil Rights Museum. As a result, some of our traditional processes have been altered, but we have also provided additional avenues for learning beyond the walls--talks in the courtyard, increased virtual opportunities and collaborations. Check out our website for upcoming programs and events. As we continue to adjust to the changes happening in our communities and lives, we are reminded of lessons learned from the Civil Rights Movement: understand the issues, ask the question “is this just,” and be persistent and tenacious in seeking justice, and by all means EXERCISE YOUR VOTE! #YourVoteYourVoice In Service,
Terri Freeman
President, National Civil Rights Museum
Congressman John Lewis’ contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and present-day fight for equality for all are insurmountable. From engaging in long and dangerous protests as a teen to serving as a U.S. Congressman, developing and advising legislation, he has shown us what it means to live a life of service, sacrifice and get into good trouble.
The National Civil Rights Museum Remembers
CONGRESSMAN JOHN LEWIS
A portion of the proceeds from the “John Lewis: Good Trouble” documentary airing on Apple TV will be donated to the National Civil Rights Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which both celebrate and honor his lifelong contributions and dedication to fighting for rights for all.