1.20.20

A meaningful MLK celebration

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Two men observing a Martin Luther King quote on a memorial wall.

Honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy by learning more about the Civil Rights Movement at area museums.

Today we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a national celebration of his work with the Civil Rights Movement. One way we can all keep King’s momentum going is by learning more about our history—by learning what each of us can do to create a more just, humane and peaceful world.

However, you don’t have to travel to The King Center in Atlanta to learn more about civil rights! Our region is home to several museums where you can discover more about our history and the work that still needs to be done. Here are a few you might visit to make your remembrance of Dr. King more meaningful.

Grand Rapids African American Museum & Archives

GRAAMA’s mission is to collect and retell the rich, colorful stories of African Americans’ history in Grand Rapids. You can hear those stories as part of the Grandmas’ Voices Project—recorded oral histories from older African Americans in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.

Through February 29, GRAAMA is hosting “Voices of the Civil Rights Movement,” an interactive kiosk featuring stories and interviews with leaders of the struggle for equal rights.

You can also learn about Grand Rapids’ Civil Rights history on GRAAMA’s free, interactive, self-guided walking tour. It highlights historical moments of the African American experience and legacy along a two-mile route in downtown Grand Rapids.

Plan a visit to GRAAMA.

The Wright Museum in Detroit

For over half a century, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History has dedicated itself to exploring and celebrating the rich cultural legacy of African Americans. Through dozens of permanent and visiting exhibitions, over 300 annual public events and programs, as well as education and research opportunities for adults, children and visiting scholars, The Wright inspires visitors toward greater understanding, acceptance and unity by reflecting on the triumphs and tragedies of African-American history.

Plan a visit to the Wright Museum.

Jim Crow Museum in Big Rapids

Ferris State University is home to the Jim Crow Museum of Racist Memorabilia. Their goal is to use objects of intolerance to foster tolerance and promote social justice.

The museum’s curator and founder said in an NPR interview that the intention of exhibiting items that display racial stereotypes and derogatory caricatures is not to traumatize but to teach.

You can learn and explore on their content-rich website or plan a visit to the Jim Crow Museum.

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