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Civil Rights Memorial Center: A Place for Reflection and Remembrance

Reflect on the Civil Rights Movement at this moving memorial honoring the martyrs and inspiring a continued march toward racial equity and justice.

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The Civil Rights Memorial Center in Montgomery, Alabama, serves as a poignant tribute to the martyrs of the Civil Rights Movement. Designed by Maya Lin, the memorial features a circular black granite table with water flowing over the names of those who lost their lives in the struggle for equality, inviting visitors to reflect on the past and consider the future.

A brief summary to Civil Rights Memorial Center

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow ample time for reflection at the memorial; the flowing water and engraved names create a powerful and emotional experience.
  • Visit the Civil Rights Memorial Center to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the individuals commemorated at the memorial.
  • Consider attending a workshop or program at the Civil Rights Memorial Center to engage in meaningful dialogue about issues of race, justice, and human rights.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Rosa Parks Museum on Montgomery Street, walk south toward Washington Avenue. The Civil Rights Memorial Center is located at 400 Washington Avenue, a short walk of approximately 5 minutes. Look for the circular memorial with flowing water in front of the Southern Poverty Law Center.

  • Public Transport

    The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus service throughout the city. Several bus routes stop near the Civil Rights Memorial Center. Check the MATS website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is approximately $1.25. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the center.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Montgomery. A ride from downtown hotels or attractions to the Civil Rights Memorial Center typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on the distance and demand. The drop-off point is directly in front of the center on Washington Avenue.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 400 Washington Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104. Limited street parking is available near the memorial. Paid parking lots are also located within a few blocks, with hourly rates typically ranging from $2 to $5. Be aware that parking can be challenging during peak tourist season or special events. The RSA Tower Parking Garage on Washington Avenue is a convenient option.

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Discover more about Civil Rights Memorial Center

Located in downtown Montgomery, Alabama, the Civil Rights Memorial Center stands as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil Rights Movement. Designed by Maya Lin, who also created the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the memorial is a contemplative space dedicated to remembering the struggle for racial equality and honoring those who were killed between 1954 and 1968. The centerpiece of the memorial is a large, circular black granite table. The names of forty individuals who died as a result of their activism or simply because of their race are etched into the table's surface, along with significant dates and events from the movement. Water constantly flows across the surface, creating a soothing atmosphere and symbolizing cleansing and healing. A curved black granite wall behind the table features Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s paraphrase of Amos 5:24: '...until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream'. The Civil Rights Memorial Center serves as an interpretive center, offering exhibits, educational activities, and an original short film that encourage reflection on the power of activism. Visitors can learn about the history of the movement, the lives of the martyrs, and the ongoing struggle for racial equity and social justice. Before leaving, visitors are invited to add their names to the Wall of Tolerance, joining thousands of others who have pledged to work for justice. The memorial is in an open plaza and is accessible 24 hours a day.

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