THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER HIGHLIGHTS THE TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS THROUGHOUT HISTORY

FREE admission on Sunday, February 3, 2013, courtesy of TD Bank and on Sunday, February 24, 2013, courtesy of PwC

My little guy overlooking Independence Mall, from the NCC second floor.

Breaking Barriers Show

The Breaking Barriers Show examines the lives of Thurgood Marshall, Bessie Coleman, Jackie Robinson, and other extraordinary African Americans throughout history to provide insight into the issues they faced and the rights they secured for all Americans. Students are sent on a storytelling adventure to learn about the experiences of African Americans in the 1700s, 1800s, and 1900s. These inspiring stories teach visitors how an individual’s civic actions can affect a nation.

Decoding the Document: Emancipation Proclamation

Students will take a closer look at the Center’s rare printing of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by Abraham Lincoln, to learn more about its history, the Civil War, and the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution.

The Jazz Age

In connection with the Center’s feature exhibition, American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, visitors will discover the significant contributions of African Americans in the 1920s to the areas of literature, art, music, dance, theater, and more during The Jazz Age interactive program. From Jazz music to poetry, the Harlem Renaissance saw African Americans using artistic talents to challenge racial stereotypes and to help promote racial integration.

Self-Guided African American History Tour

Visitors can tour the Center’s main exhibition, The Story of We the People, and explore important moments in African American history through historical artifacts and interactive experiences including:

· Artifacts owned by free African Americans in the 1700s who once called the land on which the National Constitution Center now stands home

An invitation, ticket, and program from President Barack Obama’s 2008 Inauguration
The American National Tree, an interactive exhibit which highlights individuals who have helped shape the Constitution over the last 200 years, including Muhammad Ali, Jackie Robinson, Barbara Jordan, Booker T. Washington, Harriet Tubman, and Elizabeth Eckford
A rare printing of the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by Abraham Lincoln

· A copy of the first printing of the Dred Scott Decision from 1857, President Lyndon B. Johnson’s pen used to sign the Voting Rights Act, and a poll tax receipt from Travis County, Texas

Inside American Spirits: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, visitors can step into a recreated speakeasy and learn about the origins of Jazz – then explore its impact on popular culture and race relations in America.

Giant Board Game

The Center’s giant board game on the Center’s Grand Hall Overlook offers the chance for children and families to test their knowledge of African American history, while competing to see who can cross the finish line first. Participants serve as game pieces as they roll the giant dice, answer questions, and work their way across the board.