In preparation for the 50th Anniversary of the Assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (April 4th, 2018), and the 50th Anniversary of the founding of The King Center (June 23rd-26th, 2018), various areas of The King Center will be temporarily blocked off for renovations.
The reflecting pool, one of the most visited sites in Atlanta, encompassing the crypts of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, will be refurbished. The renovations are being done in anticipation of the millions expected to visit the site next year, commencing in January 2018 for the King Holiday Observance, with the subsequent anniversaries in April and June of 2018.
Freedom Hall will also receive some much needed upgrades which will include new flooring, and video monitors to enhance the visitor experience. Occasionally, the renovations will impact viewing of the crypt and exhibits. However, guests are encouraged to continue to visit and participate in alternative activities including powerful documentary screenings in the Yolanda D. King Theatre for the Performing Arts, or the screening room.
The screening room will provide a selection of 30 minute documentaries highlighting different aspects of social justice. The bookstore will continue to provide sought after items and books for purchase on campus. Renovations commenced in October and will finish in December 2017. This will be in time for the annual King Holiday Observance, which starts on Tuesday, January 9, 2018.
Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center said, “We want to thank the City of Atlanta and Mayor Kasim Reed for providing the much needed funds to renovate our reflecting pool which surrounds my parents’ crypts.” She continued, stating, “For those who want to get involved, we welcome support from corporations and donors to help us ensure the world sees that Atlanta’s very own son is honored in a manner that we can all be proud of.”
For more information about activities during this renovation process, and updates on the progress as areas of the campus reopen, log onto www.thekingcenter.org or follow on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you have any questions prior to your visit, contact (404) 526-8900.
About the Center
The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) is a 501(c) 3 organization established in 1968 by Mrs. Coretta Scott King. The King Center is the official living memorial and programmatic nonprofit organization committed to educating the world on the life, legacy, and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The King Center serves to inspire new generations to carry forward his unfinished work, strengthen causes and empower change-makers who are continuing his efforts today. The King Center’s premiere educational initiative, Nonviolence365™, is based on Dr. King’s nonviolent philosophy and engages participants from various sectors of society, including emerging and next generation leaders, in modules and exercises that enhance communication, leadership, interpersonal and conflict reconciliation skills.
