Civil Rights Memorial Center

The Civil Rights Memorial is a thoughtful tribute to the africans who were victims of murdered through legal and illegal lynching. You feel their spirits crying out for justice. I felt the impact even more when I found one of my great granddads' names hanging there. I had no idea how close the injustice was to my family. The Memorial reminded us of all the forgotten african ancestors who were murdered through the injustice of a society that didn't value their lives. A must-see exhibit for those interested in the history of the African in the American South.

Brief dramatic media presentations for school age children through adult ages

Not what I expected. On the outside there are some statues and monuments commemorating civil rights Heroes however the inside of Museum itself is very lacking.

While in Montgomery for work, I visited the Civil Rights Memorial the weekend before Election Day, in the heart of the Confederacy, where some monuments still stand. The 'Traveling While Black" exhibit is a virtual reality experience, allowing you to sit in on conversations at Ben's Chili Bowl (a safe haven for Blacks), as we weren't welcomed in restaurants, hotels, gas stations, etc. on our journeys. It'll be open until January. Stirring, haunting presentations of this country's racial struggles were admittedly hard to watch, but this visit was needed. Though hurtful, it's necessary to see where we've come from to forge the path toward equality and justice for ALL. The division I see daily makes me sad for humanity, but I know there is hope. Change starts with ALL OF US. Let's purposely show that we matter to each other!

I would recommend visiting if you're in the area. It was small but nicely done throughout.

This is a memorial for all the documented lynchings. And the ones that were not documented. Very beautiful. And knowledgeable as well because everything is in alphabetical order so you can find whatever county in the south and see how they got down in the past. Sad how they did my people and we still have a ways to go

We stopped here on a trip on our way to Florida it was my best friend and my daughters. Beautiful time of reflection. A quite time to honor those who lost their life to make ours better. It did remind me of the memorial that was in Washington DC for the Vietnam vets. I was surprised to see the water coming down the wall as well as the granite fountain with the names on it.

This is a lovely tribute to the fallen civil rights individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for the movement. Designed by Maya Lin, who designed the Vietnam Memorial in DC, it is a moving piece.

Parking here can be tricky. I was able to find some free street parking. There is metered street parking available as well within a reasonable walking distance. Outside you will find a waterfall running down a wall that has a quote from Martin Luther King. There is also a large circular black granite water table that has the names of 41 people killed (Martyrs) in the name of the civil rights struggle. It was designed by Maya Lin in 1989. In order to enter here you must have a must, submit to a temperature check and go through security screening. This is one of the few museum in the area that allows photos inside. The Center is very small. The first room that you come to is the The Martyr Room and features 74 people, that are known as "The Forgotten", and the 41 "Civil Rights Martyrs" that are listed on the memorial outside. Sadly, it is an extensive list and has Emmet Till, Martin Luther King, Medgar Evers, and other less notable names. The main section of the Center is the Apathy is Not an Option: Orientation Theater. It seats about 75 or so and is very nice. The movie that they play here is on a schedule and the timer is located in the previous room. It tells you when the next showing is. The movie is amazing and is a must see. It is well put together. I really loved it and am glad that I waited for it. The rest of the Center has pictures of people on the walls with phrases and/or personal stories on them It is titled The March Continues: Today's Activist. The Center's last area is the Wall of Justice: A Space of Reflection, a video wall with names falling down. You can put your name on the wall, by agreeing to a pledge. It does not stay there, so if you are going to get a picture of it then you better do it fast. You end you tour in the small gift shop that sells key chains, t-shirt, and pencils/pens, and pictures. It does not take long to make it through the center. I spent about 45 minutes here and that included watching the movie. There is not much to the Center, but is is still worth a visit if you are in the area and have time.

I wouldn't call this a museum. Memorial center, as named, is appropriate. It is worthwhile as the staff are super nice and helpful, the film is informative, and it goes over personal accounts of those involved in the civil rights struggle. But that's about all that's here. This isn't in-depth; it took me less than an hour to complete my visit--but it's a good adjunct to the EJI museum and memorial. And near the freedom rides museum. Each museum is only five dollars, so you can see the EJI museum and memorial, the civil rights memorial center, and the freedom rides museum for 15 total dollars. Why not?

If you're visiting Montgomery, stop by and visit the Civil Rights Memorial Center. The Memorial Center was dreamed up the founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center, Morris Dees, who was dismayed to learn that many people didn't know the names of the martyrs of the civil rights movement. The Memorial is outside the building. It's a circular black granite table recording the names of martyrs and chronicling the history of the civil rights movement and was designed by Maya Lin. It's an interesting and powerful piece. Then step inside to the center, where you can read about the martyrs whose names appear on the memorial and watch a short video. The video is a little dated, but it's worth visiting inside to learn more about the work of the Southern Poverty Law Center and the men, women, and children who gave their lives for civil rights in our country.

The Civil Rights Memorial Center honors the triumphs and tragedies that took place during the American Civil Rights Movement. Designed by Maya Lin(who also designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.), the memorial honors 40 individuals who died fighting for equal rights between 1954 and 1968. It is located just steps away from the Alabama State Capitol, the Rosa Parks Museum and Dexter King Memorial Baptist Church where Dr. King served as pastor during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Metered parking is available on the streets around the memorial. It is a small museum but the exhibits are very powerful. "... until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream." Dr. King's famous paraphrase of Amos 5:24 is chiseled into the black granite of the Civil Rights Memorial, a moving tribute to those who died in the civil rights struggle.

Take your time and read everything you see here. Learn why some of us make an uproar about inequality and our country's substandard justice system. Understand why Kap took a knee. Realize that this country belongs to everyone and not just the elite. This country has no place for hate and places like this help teach that, but only if you're willing to listen/read and learn. Anji was seated at the cashier's desk at the end of my tour. She is so friendly! She made a great final impression on a tour that had already made a significant mark on my soul. I'm so glad I visited this place. Kudos to you, SPLC.

This was a sad and informative museum. It was really small with very tight security. The level of security surprised me. The stories shared were just heartbreaking. The video was okay but I wish it was more in depth. It seemed to be for children. This museum was very small and quick. What there was to see was great but there could be so much more in my opinion. There should be multiple films. More about inequality of today. The homage to the martyrs is great but this place needed to go further. The admittance was only $2.00. It was a profound museum but fell short in really driving it home.

Very cool, but smaller than I expected. Great for symbolism but not as powerful as I was hoping for. When I learned that I would be passing through Montgomery, I knew that this would have to be a stop. The architect - Maya Lin - is well known for her work on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. That's a very powerful piece of work. I think the Civil Rights Memorial doesn't hit the same height. It's interactive with the fountain and the quote from MLK. The carved list of events from the civil rights struggle are touchable and thought provoking but just... not striking. "... we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream. ..." Interesting that there was a security guard across the street. I guess there are stupid people who want to do dumb things.

I love learning about the Civil Rights Movement so I took full advantage of the many historical opportunities around Montgomery. I wasn't able to actually visit the center but I took some time to look at the fountain. It's beautiful. I was all by myself most of the time, except for a guard hanging out on the corner, so I was truly able to take it in, thing about it, experience it. The Civil Rights Memorial is a memorial in Montgomery, Alabama to 40 people who died in the struggle for the equal and integrated treatment of all people, regardless of race, during the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. The names included belong to those who died between 1954 and 1968. Those dates were chosen because in 1954 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in schools was unlawful and 1968 is the year of Martin Luther King's assassination. The monument was created by Maya Lin who created the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. The memorial was dedicated in 1989. The concept of Maya Lin's design is based on the soothing and healing effect of water. It was inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr.'s paraphrase "... we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream. ...", from the "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963. This passage in King's speech is a direct reference to Amos 5:24, as translated in the American Standard Version of the Bible. The memorial is a fountain in the form of a round stone inverted cone. A film of water flows over the base of the cone, which contains the 40 names included. It is possible to touch the smooth film of water and temporarily alter the surface film, which quickly returns to smoothness. As such, the memorial represents the aspirations of the American civil rights movement against racism.

If you come to Alabama you must come here and learn about History and the injustice that was done to People !!! People that bleed like all Gods children ! No words can express the feelings I felt reading all the plaques! This young man there have us so much more history and information that just blew our mind!! Support places like this , we can do better if we no better! And learn from our ancestors mistakes!

We were in town and stopped by during COVID. We were more than pleasantly surprised and moved by this memorial. The staff were knowledgeable and pleasant.

At least go see the fountain. The inside is very small and it's very cerebral with a lot of reading. I'm not sure if kids will grasp this as quickly as adults do. But oh man. What a tearjerker. I bet awfulness in many forms has probably affected you and others you know in ways that might be difficult to articulate. This place helps put into words what some of those injustices might be. Some of the graphics are really poignant. And you'll be pulled back in time remembering news events that happened yesterday. As in, not just 'years ago yesterday' but also quite literally 24 hours ago. This is a good place to visit after the Parsonage or Rosa Parks museum. Just stand outside and spend some time at the fountain. You really come to appreciate the significance of mighty streams.

I was a bit disappointed to find that I couldn't see the Southern Poverty Law Center, but I totally get why. In this politically divided day and age, hate begets not only fear but also anger to those who are trying to make a difference. The staff graciously explained why SPLC was under such lock and key and invited us into the Memorial Center. Outside, a beautiful water wall chronicled the lives lost during the Civil Rights Movement. Inside, we were ushered through a security checkpoint and into a viewing of civil rights moments in Montgomery. A young man took the podium after the video ended to explain the current work going on with the SPLC. He looked very much like an intern, unfortunately. He could answer basic questions about the SPLC's work, but he wasn't very knowledgeable about current events or how the organization was responding to threats by the Trump Administration. This is especially of concern given the spike in hate crimes and racist organizing after the inauguration. Sensing that we grew tired of the stumbling, an African-American woman took the stage and provided some much need clarity. Of particular interest: how the SPLC wants to establish anti-racism and non-violence student groups across the country. We found the idea intriguing and continued talking about how to invite SPLC members to our campus on our return. The tour continued to feature stories of lives lost. Another high point: a massive display connected to a computer terminal. The terminal features a pledge to end racism and invites visitors to take the pledge. If you do and fill in your name, your name appears among those who have signed before you. I thought that was an interesting way to affirm one's commitment to stopping racism. We briefly stopped in the gift shop before leaving. Though small, the space offers memorabilia, posters, writing utensils, water bottles, and kitchenware among other goodies. The clerk was gracious and happily took care of our orders. What a great trip! I'm glad I stopped in.

Sobering indeed. To read the names and about the deaths of too many in the name Of civil rights was disturbing, yet I am glad that they have not been lost to history. They need to be remembered as we need to be reminded.

A TIME FOR REFLECTING! When visiting the city of Montgomery make sure that you have a visit to the Civil Rights Memorial at the top of your list. Here you can visit the memorial and visit the museum as well. The museum provides a wonderful picture and short synopsis of the civil rights movement, and pays respect to those who lost their lives in the fight for rights and to others who have lost their lives because of their religion, sexual orientation, and gender. It is not just about those of color but many others who have been discriminated against for one reason or another. I appreciated the profile of Maya Lin who designed the memorial. I loved reading about her thought process behind the design and how she wanted visitors to experience it. Upon entering the museum, you will be treated to a short film which gives you an overview and sets the tone for what you will see in the museum. As you exit the main areas you will encounter a wall that depicts other groups, (Native Americans, same sex couples, farmers, women and others) that have and continue to face discrimination in our society. Yes, "the march continues" and is not just about those individuals who share my complexion. As you continue toward the exit, you will encounter a moving wall of names for those who stand in support of the continued fight for Civil Rights. My husband and I had the privilege of adding our names to this wall of 750,000 names. It was cool to see my name reflected on the wall and know that I am joining with so many others who really want to see a better more inclusive world. I really feel that a great opportunity was missed when the words "We will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream. ..." from the "I Have a Dream" speech were not inscribed on any item that could be purchased in the gift shop. These were the words inscribed on the monument and the words I wanted to take with me figuratively and literally. Instead, the words "The march continues" were the words printed on mugs, tees and other items for sale. Regarding the well-designed and very thoughtful memorial, it has a wall that features flowing water along with a large engraved disk that not only holds the names of the forty-one individuals who died fighting for Civil Rights but significant dates marking key events. The names cover the period from 1954 (school segregation deemed unlawful) until 1968 (King's assassination). When I approached the building I was immediately drawn to the monument, but after visiting the museum, I experienced the monument in a totally different way, (according to Maya's vision). This was one of the first stops during our tour and deservedly so. It is a great place to take kids to create meaningful dialogue and consciousness. Some photos are graphic so be prepared. The museum cost is $2 to enter so that it is affordable for everyone.

The same designer of the Vietnam Memorial created this one as well. I love the continuous flow of water here as well as the names of those who fought for equal rights for all. A pamphlet is available to read a brief story of each individual. I have not had the chance to look inside the actual museum, but hope to do so soon.

Not gonna lie, it was smaller than I thought. When you first come through the door, you have to go through security check. Which makes a lot of sense you don't want to muddy to go on and vandalize any history being preserved in this center. We just thought that whole process seems so intense, which rightfully so. But, it really made it seem that the area was gonna be huge. But you know they say it's not the size of a place or thing that matters, it's the message. And with each fact, mural, and interactive screen, that covered the Civil Rights Memorial Center wall-to-wall, it did just that. Messages of hope, the struggles and battles, and the fight that we're still working together to overcome today. One of the most immersive things has to be the theater. We sat down and watched as we were explained, the timelines, sacrifice, and different events that took place. That put this movement in motion. If you ever visit, the film is most definitely something, that you would want to sit down, and watch. After that we had it outside to view the art dedicated to their sacrifice and and read up on more history. It is just two dollar, self-guided tour. which is totally a steal! If you're ever in Montgomery this is definitely a place that you would want to check out.

While it's a difficult topic that no one enjoys talking about, this museum and memorial does a tasteful, inspiring way. The movie hit it right on the head and brings out the true nature of the foundation and actions of the Civil Rights Movement. This is an important site for every American to visit. We have to understand the past to prevent it from occurring again and we must stand up and do our part to combat prejudice and racism every day.

Amazing place very heartwarming and informative this is someplace everyone should visit

This is also a small museum, however this is one of the more powerful ones. The memorial is outside, and is a must see to visit. Inside they talk about several civil rights activists and what they stood for.

The museum exhibit provides an excellent overview highlighting the significant role that Montgomery plays in the civil rights movement. Short and to the point.

really amazing..awe inspiring..i will say its at the top of a loooong steep hill..but it is worth every second that walk..the outside portion is beautiful and its quiet and serene..i arrived a little later than i would have liked and they were closing soon, however i was still allowed in and given right up until the end, and the staff here is superbly friendly and accommodating..you are able to walk around and learn the events of the Civil Rights Movement that happened in Montgomery, and also some of the people that were pivotal in making the changes and sacrifices needed

I loved the Civil Rights Memorial Center. The outside portion of the memorial is a circular fountain with the names of several people who died in the 1950s and 60s with short descriptions of their death. Inside, faces and more descriptive information is put to the names. There are also a few interactive kiosks that tell you more about civil rights events that occurred in Montgomery. There is also a film that runs 15-20 minutes and is powerful. It recounts some history and stories and quite frankly, is heart-wrenching. However, like the movie says, we must face history and face ourselves to progress. My favorite part of the memorial was being able to enter your name onto the Wall of Tolerance. You sign a pledge committing yourself to taking a stand against hate and injustice. Then, your name continuously scrolls with all the others who have already committed to doing the same. I know it's just a digital wall, but I think it's pretty special. Logistically speaking- it's $2, takes 25-30 minutes, and they have security. In 1983 the KKK bombed the Southern Law Poverty Center's previous building and as recent as 2008 have protested outside of their new building, where the memorial is housed. It makes me sick - that's why visiting and committing to stop hate is so important!

This is a continuation of my field trip with students -- we were on an Alternative Spring Break in Alabama - learning about the Civil Rights Movement by living in Selma for a week, working with the people and talking to them about their experiences. It is difficult to listen to the stories and keep objectivity; one of my students had it right "how can we still be fighting the same fight?" This memorial is suppose to tell us about history, but the truth is we are still living through the movement - the wave may not be as strong as it was during the 50's and 60's -- we have not felt the overwhelming pressures that culminated from years of slavery and human rights oppression, but we are still fighting this fight. We still battle ignorance, hatred and abuse of power in this country hiding under the guise of religion, national pride and bureaucracy. And with those memories, come emotions - how can we process them so that we can heal? This memorial helps with the process, it helps us be hopeful with the documentation of achievements in human growth. We can overcome, we can learn, we can forgive, we can heal - but first we must act. We must choose to get off the fence and make a stand for justice. Truth be told, this place challenged my honesty - was I really standing up for a cause or was I giving lip service. Visiting this place will bring you to a place of reflection. It was empowering to watch my students as they explored the walls of history, and listen to them as they processed the information to formulate action plans to improve our society. This is a must see for everyone.

It's the National Civil Rights Memorial. How could it get any better than this?

Amazing experience. I love the interactive exhibits. I also loved the top floor about human rights. I'll definitely be going back a few more times

This place was extremely powerful. Here on a tour with my work group, and there was nothing more fitting. It really does well to highlight how pivotal a role some of the Montgomery and Alabama community played in the Civil Rights movement. It does very well to highlight some of these incredible people and the injustices our nation faced not too long ago. The movie they play is a GEM, and really makes you feel just how necessary it is for everyone to stand up for all human rights. I held back tears throughout the entire time. Joseph was our tour guide and he did an incredible job! He was extremely well-versed and super approachable; we were thankful to have him. Recommend this historical location to EVERYONE!

I visited the civil rights memorial for my 25th birthday!! It just reminds me how hard my ancestors fought for me and how I should always be grateful. The inside is not huge but still filled with so much information about the civil rights time line. It is surely worth it.

A fairly small museum adjacent to a memorial to those who died in the US Civil Rights struggle of the 1950s and 1960s.. the memorial itself, designed by the same architect as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, is qutie impressive. The small museum, which only costs $2 to visit, has a lot of interesting information and includes a short but very informative and powerful film.. Given that this is within walking distance of the state capitol and other touristic attractions in the area such as the bus stop where Rosa Parks refused to move to the back of the bus, this is definitely worth visiting !

Loved the memorial -- it's really well designed and I love the effect of the water. The exhibit was just a couple of bucks and worth spending 30 minutes or so.

A must visit if you are in Montgomery . The 40 people that are highlighted in this memorial all played a significant part in history and it's a great learning experience. Also put your name on The Wall of Tolerence.. Amazing

I can't write an honest review of this memorial because I did not have the opportunity to really visit due to time constraints. We walked to it in the early hours before it was open, and we rode past it on the bus. But I did see the beautiful circular fountain. Remembering the many heroes that this place represents makes me hopeful for the future of our country.

We expected it to be a larger museum. But what we did seewas very emotional. The movie was good and made you relive the cruelties,horrors and senseless murders. The pledge for tolerance wall and the black water circle outside were touching. Admission was $2 pp.

What a wonderful place. The boys and me started by visiting the Memorial in the front of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) which was designed by the same woman who designed the Vietnam Memorial. As I read the names and watched the water flow I sheepishly put my hand in like a child hoping not to get caught. I learned at the museum it was intended for that purpose so I am happy to know I wasn't disrespecting the memorial. The Memorial Center was wonderful. If you are in front of the Memorial facing the SPLC building the entrance is to the left. It took us about 30-45 minutes to get through the exhibit and we took our time. It was wonderful because the Center gears the exhibits to adults and children offering many interactive displays, pictures and much to read on the walls. It was wonderful as I had to read every bit of information and my kids were kept busy with the displays. There is a little theater that shows a short film about the Civil Rights movement and then on to the Interactive Wall of Tolerance. What a great opportunity to take the pledge and add your name to the wall. I added my name and my kids did not understand what it was at first but, when I explained it I told them it was their choice. They both accepted and I could not have been prouder as we exited the exhibit watching our names on the screen. What an amazing place!

This was just a few blocks from many other landmarks in the Montgomery Civil Rights movement. I believe this was put together by the Southern Poverty Law Center and unlike the other landmarks we have visited about Civil Rights, this really put faces to the era. A memorial dedicated to the martyrs in the movement, the readings were about the victims of the era. We did not have time to view the film, but this was an introspective starting point for our Montgomery and Birmingham visits. This was just a few small rooms (there was a minimal charge to enter) that only took about 20minutes to walk and read through. If you are visiting Montgomery, it should be on your list.

As a huge fan of the SPLC, I was so excited to be able to visit this museum while in Montgomery. I was very happy with the $2 price and as I had expected from the high quality of SPLC's work and publications, this museum was top-notch and rivaled in quality the museums in D.C. There is a room with pictures of all the people whose names appear on the memorial as well as information on what they did and what happened to them. This was heart-breaking but important to be aware of. Next we watched a short video with more background information on why the memorial was built etc. There was also some information on the walls about the inspiration for the memorial and a little about hate crimes more recently. The last part was the Wall of Tolerance where you can pledge to fight for justice and add your name. I thought this was a really neat way to involve visitors and we loved seeing our names on the wall. I even loved the gift shop. Everything was extremely inexpensive and I got some nice posters. Overall we spent about 30 minutes. The memorial in itself was beautiful and a wonderful tribute. I would highly recommend this museum as the companion so that one can learn a lot more about the context and the people who are memorialized there.