The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute takes its visitors on one of this nation's most significant journeys by capturing the spirit and courage of countless individuals who, during the 1950's and 1960's, dared to confront the bigotry and racial discrimination of American society. The Institute's historic galleries trace the footsteps of those brave men and women. The journey moves from the era of segregation to the birth of the Civil Rights Movement and the worldwide struggle for civil and human rights. Along the way, exciting multimedia exhibitions depict dramatic events that took place in Birmingham and other cities, events that stirred the conscience of a nation and influenced the course of an international human rights struggle. The Institute's projects and services promote research, provide information, and encourage discussion on human rights in America and around the world.