The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a "living institution" which views the lessons of the past as crucial to understanding our heritage and defining our future. Since its opening in November of 1992, permanent exhibitions capture the spirit and courage of countless individuals who, in the 1950's and 1960's dared to confront the bigotry and racial discrimination of American society. Exciting interactive exhibitions depict the dramatic events in Birmingham and other cities that stirred the conscience of a nation and influenced the course of human rights. The mission of BCRI is to promote civil and human rights worldwide through education.