PRESERVING OUR HISTORY
Located on 125th Street in central Harlem, the Urban League Empowerment Center will provide 20,000 square feet of exhibition and programming space for The Urban Civil Rights Museum, New York’s first-ever museum dedicated to civil rights.
A Harlem Welcome Center
The Urban Civil Rights Museum will be a first stop for area visitors, with a focus on the development of Harlem as a “beacon for African American progress.” Exhibitions and programs will use high- and low-tech interactives to create opportunities for exploration of Harlem-area attractions, historic and contemporary sites of interest. The Museum would look to partner with area organizations, tour companies, and institutions to serve as an orientation site for tours and activities, preparing visitors and residents alike with fun experiences.
An Information Hub: This space will provide resources for residents and visitors on cultural opportunities throughout the area.
A Museum Focused on Urban Civil Rights:
Using Harlem-based stories as a jumping off point, the exhibitions and programs will:
- Explore the impact of urbanization on African Americans and its influence on politics, music, food, literature, and major movements;
- Recount stories from the Harlem Renaissance;
- Showcase the role of the urban civil rights movement in the development of cities across America;
- Provide interactive and educational experiences suitable for children and adults on the role of organizations like the Urban League in helping historically disadvantaged people pursue, obtain, and maintain economic opportunities.