Permanent Exhibits

ORIENTATION THEATER

An eight-minute film introduces visitors to the history of Birmingham from its founding in post-Civil War Alabama to the 1920’s

BARRIERS GALLERY

Separate water fountains, separate restaurants, segregated schools and buses symbolize the quality of life under segregation from 1920 to 1954.

CONFRONTATION GALLERY

The voices of Black and White individuals are heard depicting the climate of violence and intimidation that reinforced segregation during the Civil Rights Movement era.

MOVEMENT GALLERY

The gallery takes visitors through the history of the Movement from 1955 to 1963 highlighting Birmingham’s Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

PROCESSIONAL GALLERY

Life-sized figures “walk to freedom” in this gallery that allows an outside view of Kelly Ingram Park directly across from the Institute, site of many protest demonstrations in the 1960’s.

MILESTONES GALLERY

Local and national achievements of individuals and organizations are presented within this gallery, currently featuring the life and legacy of Dr. A. G. Gaston, Birmingham visionary and entrepreneur.

OFFICE OF THE MAYOR

View mementos from the administration of Birmingham’s first Black mayor, Dr. Richard Arrington, Jr.

HUMAN RIGHTS GALLERY

Included are interactive audio, video, and computer programs describing the international scope of the movement for human rights.

RESOURCE GALLERY

Computer stations serve as an extensive resource center for teachers, students, researchers, and visitors seeking information on civil and human rights.

ODESSA WOOLFOLK GALLERY

Named after BCRI founding Board member Odessa Woolfolk, the gallery is an 1,800 square foot room that provides space for temporary touring exhibits and informative exhibitions developed by the Institute.