A New Chapter for LGBTQ+ Institute
Tim’m West, who served as the director of the LGBTQ+ Institute, established the Rustin Institute as an independent 501(c)(3) organization to deepen its impact, pursue new funding opportunities, and expand partnerships.
America at 250: Reflecting on Our Past and Shaping Our Future
This summer, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This foundational moment gave a concrete, if imperfect, form to a vision rooted in liberty, equality, and self-governance. Over the past 250 years, the nation has made significant progress toward the realization of these ideals while also confronting the complexities of its history. This milestone provides an opportunity to both reflect on national progress and reckon with the work that remains. Across the country, communities, cultural institutions, and civic organizations are collaborating to mark this historic anniversary in meaningful ways. Through festivals, public programs, exhibitions, and discussions, Americans are celebrating progress while engaging in deeper reflection on the nation’s past, present, and future. These gatherings and dialogues encourage us all to examine the contemporary meaning of democracy and to consider our roles in shaping it. At the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, this milestone aligns with our mission. We honor the stories of individuals and movements that have advanced civil and human rights while also recognizing the complexities of our shared history. We maintain that understanding the past empowers individuals to take informed action in the present. Through our programs and resources, we support visitors in transforming reflection into impact, whether by learning about relevant issues or by finding opportunities for civic engagement. When you visit our website, you’ll find a list of passions you can champion and a variety of ways to take action and make a difference. We encourage you to check out those resources and find a way to contribute to shaping our nation’s future. To commemorate this occasion, we are hosting a weekend of programs at the Center designed to inspire reflection, connection, and action: July 2: We Hold These Truths July 3: UPS Free Museum Admission Day July 4: Saturday Adventures July 4–5: Bank of America Museums on Us We invite you to join us in celebrating this historic milestone, reflecting on our collective journey, and taking meaningful steps toward building a more just and inclusive future.
UPS Generous Donation Supports Operation Inspiration Company and Sponsors Upcoming Free Admission Day
ATLANTA, GA — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights announced today that UPS has donated $25,000 in support of Operation Inspiration, the Center’s initiative that provides free admission and access to transformative educational experiences for students and communities in need. In addition to the financial contribution, UPS is sponsoring a Free Admission Day on Friday, July 3, 2026, welcoming the public to experience the Center at no cost. Together, this support helps remove financial barriers while expanding access to stories of courage, justice, and social change that inspire visitors to engage with civil and human rights history. “At the Center, we believe access to history, truth, and transformative learning experiences should never be limited by financial barriers,” said Dr. Quisa Foster, Chief Development Officer at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. “UPS’s generous support of Operation Inspiration and sponsorship of Free Admission Day reflects a meaningful investment in the next generation of changemakers and in the communities we serve every day. Partnerships like this help ensure that students, families, and visitors can engage with stories that challenge, inspire, and empower them to see themselves as part of the ongoing work to advance civil and human rights.” Operation Inspiration ensures students who might not otherwise have the opportunity can experience the Center through immersive learning that helps them see themselves reflected in history and empowered to shape the future. “UPS and The UPS Foundation are proud to partner with the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, an institution that serves as a cornerstone of the community and a catalyst for education, reflection, and dialogue,” said Patrick Smith, Community Relations of The UPS Foundation. “Through its engaging exhibits and immersive experiences, the Center offers residents and visitors alike the opportunity to explore the pivotal events, movements, and achievements that have shaped civil and human rights history.” UPS’s support reflects its broader commitment to building safer, more resilient, and inclusive communities through strategic philanthropy, local engagement, and long‑term partnerships. About UPS The UPS Foundation leads UPS’s global citizenship and philanthropic efforts, delivering pathways to empower resilient, just, and safe communities around the world. Founded in 1951, the Foundation focuses on four key areas: health and humanitarian relief, equity and economic empowerment, local community engagement, and planet protection. Through cash grants, in‑kind support, employee volunteering, and UPS’s logistics expertise, The UPS Foundation works to make a measurable and lasting difference in communities globally. About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects US civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn @civilandhumanrights. Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs Chief Marketing Officer [email protected]
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights Opens Landmark Soccer and Human Rights Exhibition for FIFA World Cup 2026™
Immersive exhibit opening June 20 explores how the “people’s game” is a powerful force for belonging, activism, and connection ATLANTA (June 9, 2026) – As Atlanta prepares to welcome global visitors for World Cup 2026™, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (Center) will open The People’s Game: Soccer and Human Rights, a landmark new exhibition exploring how fans, players, and teams leverage soccer into a force for dignity, community, and social change. Opening June 20 and on view for one year, the exhibition is presented with support from Gallagher and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation in partnership with Atlanta United. “As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world for FIFA World Cup 2026, we have an extraordinary opportunity to showcase not only our passion for soccer, but also the values that define our city. The People’s Game highlights the power of sport to bring people together across cultures, create a sense of belonging and inspire positive change. We are proud to support an exhibition that reflects Atlanta’s spirit of inclusion and service while inviting visitors from around the globe to explore the connections between soccer, community and human dignity.” -Arthur M. Blank, Chairman, Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation The People’s Game exhibition includes connections to globally recognized players, clubs, and movements including Pelé, Megan Rapinoe, Didier Drogba, Corinthians, FC St. Pauli, Bayern Munich, and Atlanta United. Curated by Daniel Fuller, Director of Curation at the Center, The People’s Game exhibition brings together immersive storytelling, global artifacts, photography, sound, film, and interactive experiences—including a new take on foosball—that explore the cultural power of soccer far beyond the pitch. Visitors will encounter an immersive “Audio Dome” featuring voices from players, supporters, activists, refugees, historians, and community leaders from around the world reflecting on how soccer shapes social movements. The exhibition also features stories connected to anti-apartheid activists in South Africa, democracy movements in Brazil and Côte d’Ivoire, refugee and immigrant communities, and supporter groups using soccer as a platform for inclusion and social change. “Soccer is the world’s most popular sport, but its importance extends far beyond the game itself,” said Daniel Fuller, curator of The People’s Game: Soccer and Human Rights. “Across generations and continents, football has become a language through which people express identity, build community, resist oppression, and imagine a more just world.” Arriving during a period of intense global debate around migration, nationalism, race, gender, and labor in sport, the exhibition examines how soccer continues to reflect broader struggles over belonging and human dignity. The exhibition highlights Atlanta’s role as a global crossroads shaped by migration, activism, and the growing cultural impact of soccer. Featured stories include Soccer in the Streets; the refugee-centered work of Fugees Family in Clarkston, GA; and artifacts connected to Atlanta United’s community impact. Also located inside the museum, visitors will experience a special display of more than 20 signed jerseys from legendary players including Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Pelé, celebrating the sport’s lasting global influence. To help welcome international audiences expected during World Cup 2026™, the Center is also launching MIA, a new AI-powered multilingual interpretation application developed in partnership with The Legacy Line, an Atlanta-based immersive technology company. Accessible through visitors’ mobile phones, the platform instantly translates exhibition content into more than 30 languages through text and audio experiences available throughout the museum. “We believe stories about dignity and human rights should be accessible and meaningful to people from every background,” said Jill Savitt, CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. “As the world comes to Atlanta, this exhibition shows how soccer can bring people together across cultures and borders while reminding us that ordinary people have the power to strengthen communities and shape history.” The People’s Game: Soccer and Human Rights opens June 20 at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and will remain on view for one year. For tickets and information, visit civilandhumanrights.org/soccer-and-human-rights. About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects American civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram @civilandhumanrights and LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncchr. Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs Chief Marketing Officer [email protected]
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights Welcomes New Board Member
ATLANTA – June 4, 2026 – The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is pleased to announce the appointment of Joel L. Pascaner to its board of directors. As with all Center directors, Pascaner will serve two three-year terms. “We are delighted Joel has joined us,” said Jill Savitt, the Center’s President and CEO. “He has long been a champion of the Center and believes deeply in all that we do.” Pascaner, a Principal with Jones and Kolb, is a member of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the Atlanta Tax Forum, and the Atlanta Estate Planning Council. He brings more than 40 years of accounting experience to the Center’s board. He joins the Atlanta institution at a pivotal moment, with the Center recently reopening after a $58 million expansion that included two new wings. “I intend to assist in the evolution of this newly renovated and state-of-the-art facility,” said Pascaner. “I want to help ensure that it becomes the highly respected organization that it deserves to be, as well as the primary source and national destination for civil and human rights from a cultural, educational, and ethical perspective.” About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights NCCHR is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Founded in 2014, NCCHR connects US civil rights history to global human rights around the world today. Our immersive and empathy-building experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change.
Norfolk Southern grants $25,000 to The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in support of Operation Inspiration
Atlanta, GA 6/1/2026 — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is proud to announce it has received a $25,000 grant from Norfolk Southern through its Thriving Communities Grant Program. The funding will support Operation Inspiration, a Center initiative that provides free admission to at-need students. Norfolk Southern has been a significant parter of the Center over the past few years and with this additional support, around 2,100 students will have the opportunity to visit the Center for free. This grant is part of Norfolk Southern’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves across its 22-state network. Launched in 2023, Norfolk Southern’s open-application grant programs are designed to support organizations working to further the areas of safety, sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience. “Our partnership with Norfolk Southern ensures that the Center will be an even more powerful space for education, dialogue, and action — one that prepares people to become engaged within their communities.” Jill Savitt, CEO of The National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Operation Inspiration grants free admission for at-need students, opening doors to powerful learning experiences at the Center. Through immersive field trips, these students engage with stories of courage, justice, and change. These experiences help students see themselves reflected in history and recognize their own power to shape the future. Donations to Operation Inspiration remove financial barriers, ensuring more young people can access this transformative educational opportunity. “The Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that bolster local economies and promote long-term resilience,” said Kristin Wong, Director of the Norfolk Southern Foundation & Community Impact. “From sustainability efforts and job training to community-building programs, the grant empowers nonprofit and community organizations working to create lasting impact.” The Norfolk Southern grant application process for 2026 is open through August 3. More information is available on the company’s website. ### About The National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects US civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn @civilandhumanrights. About Norfolk Southern Since 1827, Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) and its predecessor companies have safely moved the goods and materials that drive the U.S. economy. Today, it operates a 22-state freight transportation network. Committed to furthering sustainability, Norfolk Southern helps its customers avoid approximately 15 million tons of yearly carbon emissions by shipping via rail. Its dedicated team members deliver approximately 7 million carloads annually, from agriculture to consumer goods. Norfolk Southern also has the most extensive intermodal network in the eastern U.S. It serves a majority of the country’s population and manufacturing base, with connections to every major container port on the Atlantic coast as well as major ports across the Gulf Coast and Great Lakes. Learn more by visiting www.NorfolkSouthern.com. Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs Chief Marketing Officer [email protected]
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights LaunchesAtlanta’s Newest Children’s Play Space on April 25
Change Agent Adventure: Children’s Gallery invites young visitors into a hands-on experience focused on fun, creativity, and community ATLANTA (April 18, 2026) – The National Center for Civil and Human Rights today announced its newest experience – a gallery designed specifically for children ages 12 and under – will open on Saturday, April 25. In Change Agent Adventure: Children’s Gallery, young visitors take a magic elevator to a secret headquarters – an immersive play space where children use collaboration, creativity, and dancing to practice civic skills. Through a series of missions and challenges, kids – and the former kids who accompany them – create change agent badges and hats, engage in challenges with one another, and explore what it means to participate in their communities. The gallery includes a silent disco, an arcade, and multiple hands-on activity zones designed to keep children moving, creating, and participating. “We wanted to help kids tap their own power to influence the world around them,” said Jill Savitt, President and CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. “Change Agent Adventure gives children a place to practice their innate skills of empathy and fairness and see the roles they can play in the wider world.” The Children’s Gallery is the final gallery to open as part of the Center’s $58 million expansion. Along with five other new galleries, an updated civil rights gallery, and three classrooms, the Center has significantly increased its capacity to serve families, students, and educators across the region. The new children’s gallery is made possible by the generosity of Liz Blake; her sons Addison, Asher, and Taylor Lanier; Maggie Blake Bailey; and their families. “Every child can make a difference in the world around them,” said Liz Blake. “This gallery allows children to recognize that their voices matter—that fairness, empathy, and courage aren’t abstract ideas, but skills they already carry and can use.” Along with a children’s gallery, the Center is introducing “Saturday Adventures,” a weekly program for children, families, and groups. Activities include story time, art projects, films, and rotating mystery activities—providing families with new reasons to return each week. To support younger visitors, the Center has also developed a family guide that outlines morethan two hours of activities throughout the museum. The map is designed to help families and youth experience accessible content in all the galleries. Additional enhancements at the Center include a new café and store, with merchandise,pastries, beverages, sandwiches, and ice cream. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights currently serves more than 50,000 children annually through its education programs. The addition of a children’s gallery expands the Center’s ability to reach younger audiences, including elementary schools, youth organizations, and summer camps with spaces and content specifically for them. The curator of the Change Agent Adventure is Liba Beyer, a human rights expert who worked at Human Rights Watch for two decades. The exhibit was designed by Atelier Brückner. Tickets are now available. With opening demand already high ahead of the April 25 opening,advance tickets are strongly recommended. For more information, visit https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/change-agent-adventure/ ### About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects US civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn @civilandhumanrights. Media Contact:Tenisha GriggsChief Marketing [email protected]
Kidspiration 2026 Brings Family-Friendly Theatre to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
ATLANTA, GA — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights will welcome families and young audiences for Kidspiration 2026, a special program designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and conversation through engaging experiences for children. The program will feature the Atlanta premiere of Sherri and the Unfairies, a fantastical new musical comedy running April 7–10. Made possible through a PNC Foundation grant, Kidspiration invites children and families to explore big ideas through storytelling, imagination and play. This year’s program centers around a lively theatrical performance that offers a joyful experience for children while reinforcing the Center’s broader mission of encouraging reflection on fairness and human dignity. Created by Elliot Thomson and Peter K. Hirsch –part of the creative team behind beloved children’s programming including Arthur on PBS and Hop on HBO Max — Sherri and the Unfairies follows Sherri, a fearless 7-year-old who journeys to an imaginary land where she faces the mischievous Unfairies — Gimmy, Takey, Mimi and Yup. Along the way, Sherri encounters challenges that reveal how fairness, understanding and compassion shape the way we live together. “All of us at PNC recognize that an investment in our region’s youngest citizens is an investment in the future of our community,” said Samantha Jones, PNC regional president for Georgia. “We look forward to seeing the impact of this program and the engagement it will foster among Atlanta families.” PNC and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights have a longstanding relationship, with PNC supporting the Center from its founding through its growth and expansion. The collaboration helps ensure that programs like Kidspiration remain accessible to families and provide meaningful learning opportunities for young visitors across the community. Timed to coincide with Atlanta-area spring break, Kidspiration 2026 offers families a unique opportunity to experience the Center together through engaging programming designed especially for children. Families who plan to attend multiple performances or return throughout the year may also consider becoming members of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Membership includes unlimited museum visits, discounted admission for special programs and events and exclusive opportunities to engage more deeply with the Center’s programs and exhibits. Performance Schedule Tuesday, April 7 — 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 8 — 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Thursday, April 9 —11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Friday, April 10 — 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Creators, Writers, Producers: Elliot Thomson & Peter K. Hirsch Director and Producer: Nikki Toombs Curriculum Creator: Martha Minow Tickets and additional information are available at civilandhumanrights.org. About The PNC Foundation The PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC) actively supports organizations that provide services for the benefit of communities in which it has a significant presence. The Foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture. Through PNC Grow Up Great®, its signature cause that began in 2004, PNC has created a bilingual $500 million, multi-year initiative to help prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life. For more information, visit PNC Foundation. About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects US civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn @civilandhumanrights.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights to Honor Mrs. Billye Suber Aaron and Former Governor Roy E. Barnes at 2026 Power to Inspire Fundraising Gala
ATLANTA (March 26, 2026) – The National Center for Civil and Human Rights will host its annual Power to Inspire Gala on Thursday, May 7, 2026—its signature fundraising event—bringing together many of Atlanta’s most influential civic, corporate, and philanthropic leaders to support the Center’s mission at a critical moment for the country. This year’s gala will honor Mrs. Billye Suber Aaron, philanthropist and community leader, and Former Governor Roy E. Barnes, whose leadership and service reflect a lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and democratic values. Held just months after the Center’s reopening, Power to Inspire will offer guests a guided experience in the reimagined space, including the Change Agent Adventure, the Center’s gallery designed specifically for children under 12. Unveiled on April 25, this new gallery features interactive experiences that introduce young people to civil and human rights through empathy, participation, and action. “Mrs. Aaron and Governor Barnes exemplify lifetimes devoted to fairness and dignity in moments that matter,” said Jill Savitt, CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. “They both remind us that progress is never inevitable—it is the result of people who choose to act.” Mrs. Aaron has been a driving force for community impact, using her platform to expand access to education and opportunity while strengthening organizations across Atlanta and beyond. Her work reflects a deep belief that progress must be shared—and sustained. During his tenure as Governor of Georgia, Roy E. Barnes demonstrated principled leadership in action. His decision to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the Georgia state flag—at significant political cost—showed deep courage and conviction. His work also includes advancing the Equal Rights Amendment and championing protections against exploitative lending, reflecting his consistent commitment to fairness and accountability. Previous honorees include some of the nation’s most influential leaders in civil rights, public service, and philanthropy, including Ambassador Andrew Young and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Clarke Franklin. Power to Inspire is both a celebration and a call to action. As the Center’s largest annual fundraiser, the event directly supports its exhibitions, educational programs, and public engagement. Supporting Power to Inspire is not simply about attending an event, but about ensuring more people are equipped to understand today’s civil and human rights challenges and respond with purpose. The evening will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:00 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 7:00 p.m., and a dessert reception and after-party at 8:30 p.m. All guests will have access to the full experience, including an opportunity to explore the Center’s new galleries and connect with fellow supporters. Tickets are now available, with individual tickets starting at $1,000 and tables at $15,000. Presenting Sponsor: Delta Air Lines Lead Sponsors: The Cousins and Giornelli Families; Cox Enterprises; The Home Depot Foundation; Norfolk Southern The event’s honorary co-chairs are Wonya Lucas and Beth and Gregg Paradies. The host committee co-chairs are Liz Blake and Lakesha and Rick Robinson. For more information, visit: https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/power-to-inspire-2026/ ### About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects American civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram @civilandhumanrights and LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncchr. ### Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs VP of Marketing [email protected]
Bank of America’s Museums on Us® Program Returns in 2026 with Free Admission at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Atlanta, GA — The National Center for Civil and Human Rights will participate in Bank of America’s Museums on Us® program throughout 2026, offering free general admission to eligible cardholders on the first full weekend of each month. As part of this nationwide initiative, cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to the Center’s immersive exhibitions, which explore the history, struggles, and changemakers shaping the ongoing pursuit of civil and human rights. The program reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to cultural institutions and fostering community engagement through education and storytelling. Eligible visitors must present an active Bank of America®, Merrill®, or Bank of America Private Bank® credit or debit card, along with a matching photo ID, at the ticketing window to receive free admission. The offer applies to the individual cardholder only and is available on select dates throughout the year. Exact dates for each month are listed on the Center’s Upcoming Events page. The Center is grateful for our continued partnership with Bank of America and the critical role they play in the museum’s development. In addition to accepting us into their Museums on Us program, they were a founding supporter, contributed $6.7MM in tax credits toward the expansion of our museum, and have been a sponsor of our annual event, Power to Inspire. Their long-term support has helped us expand access, deepen community engagement, and ensure that the Center remains a space where history can be told. For more information about the Museums on Us® program, visit Bank of America’s official program page. About the National Center for Civil and Human Rights The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum and cultural organization that inspires the changemaker in each of us. Opened in 2014, the Center connects US civil rights history to global human rights movements today. Our experiences highlight people who have worked to protect rights and who model how individuals create positive change. For more information, visit civilandhumanrights.org. Follow us on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn @civilandhumanrights. Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs, Interim Vice President of Marketing & Communications [email protected]