National Memorial for Peace and Justice Guide
Reflecting on History: A Powerful Journey at the National Memorial for Peace and Justice Guide
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, often referred to as the Lynching Memorial, is a somber and profoundly moving experience dedicated to the victims of racial terror lynchings in the United States. Located in Montgomery, Alabama, this memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the injustices of the past and a call for continued efforts towards racial equality and justice. Prepare to be deeply affected as you walk through this sacred space, confronting the history of racial violence and honoring the lives of those who were lost. The memorial was conceived and created by the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing legal representation to prisoners who may have been wrongly convicted of crimes, poor prisoners without effective representation, and children prosecuted as adults. Opened in 2018, the memorial features over 800 corten steel monuments, each representing a county in the United States where a documented lynching took place. The names of the victims are inscribed on these monuments, creating a powerful and visceral representation of the scale of racial terror in America. Visiting the National Memorial for Peace and Justice is a deeply personal and reflective experience. Allow yourself ample time to walk through the memorial, read the names of the victims, and contemplate the history of racial violence in the United States. The memorial also includes a museum with exhibits that provide historical context and information about the legacy of lynching. The nearby Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration, also created by EJI, offers further insights into the history of racial injustice in America. While the memorial itself doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, Montgomery offers a variety of Southern cuisine options that reflect the region's history and culture.
Transportation
The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is located at 417 Caroline Street, Montgomery, AL 36104. It's accessible by car with parking available nearby. The Montgomery Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus service to the area. Check their website for routes and schedules.
Opening Hours
Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Ticket Price
Adults: $12, Seniors/Students: $10