Stories
In their own words
Stories can be fragile. People can jumble them, overtake them and twist them. Told again and again, the details can be exaggerated, emphasized or erased.
Journal
Categories
Stories
Stories
MLK50: Special Report
The summer of 2016 was filled with protests all across the country. People took to the streets in Baton Rouge, where Alton Sterling was killed by a police officer.
Stories
Take It to the Bridge
Memphis, July 10 marks the anniversary of the largest spontaneous act of civil disobedience in the city’s modern history. The spark: The police killings of two black men in less than 24 hours, Alton Sterling on July 5…
Letter from the President
Community Over Chaos: Clayborn Temple and the Spirit of Rebirth
Photo credit: Historic Clayborn Temple National Civil Rights Museum Op-Ed Dr. Russ Wigginton, President The recent fire that consumed Clayborn Temple is a devastating blow, not only to Memphis but to the nation.
Historical Feature
A.W. Willis, Jr. at 100: Honoring a Legacy of Courage and Commitment
On March 16, 2025, the National Civil Rights Museum proudly celebrates the 100th birthday of A.W. Willis, Jr., a trailblazing attorney, businessman, and civil rights leader who dedicated his life to justice and equality.
Letter from the President
Letter to the Community: Urgent Support for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
Dear Friends and Supporters, The National Civil Rights Museum has been privileged to serve as a center for learning, remembrance, and dialogue about the civil rights movement. Thanks to the support of the Institute of…
Program Write-up
The Fight for Truth: Black History Month and Today’s Cultural Pushback
Black History Month has been deeply influenced by ongoing racial justice movements and political tensions. The protests after the murder of George Floyd marked a turning point, with Black History Month increasingly…
Letter from the President
Black History Month at the National Civil Rights Museum: A Celebration of Ongoing Education and Community Engagement
National Civil Rights Museum Op-Ed Dr. Russ Wigginton, President Every February, Black History Month serves as a time to reflect on the resilience, achievements, and ongoing struggles of African Americans in the United…
Letter from the President
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Knew Health Equity and Civil Rights Go Hand in Hand
By Dr. Russ Wigginton Guest Columnist King understood that poverty, inadequate healthcare, and systemic inequalities were barriers to individual well-being and national progress. as published in The Tennessean, Jan.
Statement / Announcement
Museum Statement on the Declassification of the King Assassination National Intelligence Documents
The National Civil Rights Museum is closely monitoring efforts to declassify national intelligence files related to the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., President John F. Kennedy, and Senator Robert F.
Letter from the President
Yes, There Is Voter Suppression in Tennessee. Here’s the Key to Overcoming It
By Dr. Russ Wigginton Guest Columnist Every vote counts, every voice matters, and we must ensure that all Americans (especially young and marginalized people) are fully engaged in the democratic process.
Historical Feature
President Jimmy Carter: A Giant Among Leaders
The National Civil Rights Museum joins the world in mourning the passing of President Jimmy Carter. A giant among leaders and a true example of the highest ideals of public service, President Carter’s legacy will…