The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is the first state-operated civil rights museum in the nation, opening on December 9, 2017. The museum tells the comprehensive story of ordinary people who engaged in an extraordinary struggle to make civil rights a reality for all. The transformation of black Mississippians from slaves to full citizens is examined, and particular focus is given to the years 1945 to 1976. The eight galleries of the museum feature exhibits, documents, artifacts, film footage, and interactive displays. Visitors gather in the central gallery “This Little Light of Mine” to experience the music of the movement and add their light to an interactive sculpture.
