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/
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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.
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Media Contact: Tenisha Griggs
VP of Marketing
