Transport students to the heart of America’s civil rights movement in Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia is positioned at the epicenter of one of the most pivotal chapters in American history. From Atlanta to Albany, Macon to Savannah, there is history around every turn in locations that bore witness to the courage and resilience of civil rights activists.
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
Transport students to the heart of America’s civil rights movement in Atlanta. The park encompasses several key sites, including the birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., where you can gain a deeper understanding of the upbringing that shaped his remarkable journey. Walk through historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached powerful sermons advocating for justice and equality. The Visitor Center offers a wealth of exhibits and multimedia presentations that chronicle the life and legacy of this visionary leader. The park also features the final resting place of Dr. King and his wife, Coretta Scott King. Students can engage in a self-guided tour or take part in one of the various educational programs offered on site.
Tubman Museum in Georgia
Macon’s Tubman Museum is the largest museum dedicated to African American art, history and culture in the southeast. Named for extraordinary abolitionist Harriet Tubman, this museum showcases the resilience, creativity and contributions of African Americans to various aspects of society, including art, music, science and social justice. From the striking displays of contemporary artworks to the thought-provoking exhibitions on African American history, every corner of the Tubman Museum provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the narratives that shape our nation. Student groups can enjoy an interactive guided tour and educators can add on a workshop or activity to help make the most of their visit.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Step into this iconic Atlanta institution and you are immediately immersed in the rich history and ongoing struggle for civil and human rights. From engaging exhibits on the American civil rights movement and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to the stories from the struggle for human rights around the world today, the center fosters a deep understanding of the pivotal events and courageous individuals who have shaped the course of these movements. The center’s education program provides teachers with the tools needed to promote critical thinking about civil rights history.
Georgia’s Albany Civil Rights Institute and Museum
Learn about the history and grassroots activism that characterized the civil rights movement in Albany. Compelling exhibits, interactive displays and artifacts bring to life important events and courageous individuals who fought for civil rights in the city. The museum showcases the collective power of community organizing and local leaders as a force to bring about equality, voting rights and desegregation. As students explore the museum, they will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by African Americans and the inspiring efforts undertaken to bring about change. The museum also serves as a center for ongoing education, providing school tours, programs and lectures.
Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum
Named after the esteemed civil rights leader, Reverend Ralph Mark Gilbert, this museum in Savannah brings visitors on a journey into the struggle for civil rights in Georgia and beyond. The museum’s exhibits vividly portray the challenges faced by African Americans, showcasing significant events, key figures and grassroots activism that shaped the movement. Through powerful narratives, artifacts and multimedia displays, students gain a deep understanding of the sacrifices, triumphs, and ongoing struggles that define the civil rights movement. Supplemental materials are available to educators to provide thought-provoking questions and meaningful discussions.
By Courtney Lind
If you’d like to Get More Field Trip Ideas, be sure to Subscribe to Student Travel Planning Guide and Download our Current Issue for FREE
