New York City is set to welcome its first-ever museum dedicated to the American civil rights movement, Urban Civil Rights Museum, which is slated to open later this fall. Located within the newly opened 400,000-square-foot Manhattan headquarters of the National Urban Justice League on West 125th Street in Harlem, the museum promises to shift public perception about the lesser-known history of slavery in the North.
According to Marc Morial, CEO and President of the National Urban Justice League, "There's a lot of focus on the Southern experience β segregation, slavery and overcoming it." However, he emphasizes that this narrative often overlooks the significant role northern cities, such as New York, played in shaping America's civil rights movement. The museum will rectify this oversight by showcasing how urban centers like Harlem have been influenced by this history.
The Urban Civil Rights Museum aims to explore a range of topics including the Harlem Renaissance, the Great Migration, and social justice through its programming and exhibits. Permanently installed exhibits will delve into these subjects, alongside rotating displays that will highlight timely issues and events in American history.
This fall's opening of the museum coincides with America's 250th anniversary, which the organizers believe is a poignant moment to commemorate this milestone. Mayor Mamdani described this period as one where the core values of equality, diversity, and inclusion are being increasingly marginalized. In contrast, Gov. Kathy Hochul views this project as a symbol of fulfillment for many New Yorkers who value these ideals.
The Urban Justice League's new headquarters is not only home to the museum but also features 170 affordable apartments, office space for nonprofits, minority-owned businesses, and a 10,000-square-foot civil engagement conference center. This multi-faceted complex represents a significant step forward in promoting social justice and community development in Harlem.
According to Marc Morial, CEO and President of the National Urban Justice League, "There's a lot of focus on the Southern experience β segregation, slavery and overcoming it." However, he emphasizes that this narrative often overlooks the significant role northern cities, such as New York, played in shaping America's civil rights movement. The museum will rectify this oversight by showcasing how urban centers like Harlem have been influenced by this history.
The Urban Civil Rights Museum aims to explore a range of topics including the Harlem Renaissance, the Great Migration, and social justice through its programming and exhibits. Permanently installed exhibits will delve into these subjects, alongside rotating displays that will highlight timely issues and events in American history.
This fall's opening of the museum coincides with America's 250th anniversary, which the organizers believe is a poignant moment to commemorate this milestone. Mayor Mamdani described this period as one where the core values of equality, diversity, and inclusion are being increasingly marginalized. In contrast, Gov. Kathy Hochul views this project as a symbol of fulfillment for many New Yorkers who value these ideals.
The Urban Justice League's new headquarters is not only home to the museum but also features 170 affordable apartments, office space for nonprofits, minority-owned businesses, and a 10,000-square-foot civil engagement conference center. This multi-faceted complex represents a significant step forward in promoting social justice and community development in Harlem.