#USA #Dearborn #Voting Rights Act #The Henry Ford #Amber Mitchell

The Significance of the Voting Rights Act at The Henry Ford

In a heartfelt tribute to the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, The Henry Ford, alongside the Detroit Public Library, is set to commemorate a monumental milestone in American history. This collaboration emphasizes the ongoing importance of voting rights for all citizens and aims to foster essential conversations about civil rights in contemporary America.

Event Overview

On August 6, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, Amber Mitchell, the Curator of Black History at The Henry Ford, will lead a presentation titled "The Jackson Home Preservation and the Voting Rights Movement" at the Detroit Public Library's Main Branch auditorium. This free event, open to the public, will require attendees to register in advance through Eventbrite.

The Jackson Home and Its Historical Context

The presentation will delve into Amber Mitchell's extensive research surrounding The Henry Ford's acquisition of the historic Dr. Sullivan and Richie Jean Sherrod Jackson Home, which played a pivotal role during the civil rights movement. Located in Selma, Alabama, the Jackson home was a sanctuary for prominent figures of the movement, including the legendary Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The relocation of this significant site to The Henry Ford in 2024 aims to not only preserve its legacy but also to promote awareness of its historical context. Scheduled to open to visitors at Greenfield Village in 2026, the Jackson Home serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in the name of democracy and justice.

The Legacy of the Jackson Family

Amber Mitchell's talk will highlight the remarkable courage of the Jackson family, who opened their home to civil rights leaders at a time when advocating for such rights could be dangerous. Their hospitality and bravery were instrumental in galvanizing support for the passage of the Voting Rights Act. This historic act aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting and stands as a testament to the struggle for equality in America.

"The vote is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have," once stated Congressman John Lewis, a key figure in the civil rights movement and a victim of the violence during “Bloody Sunday” in Selma. This powerful statement resonates throughout Mitchell's presentation, bridging the historical struggles for voting rights with today's ongoing debates about civil liberties and representation.

About Amber Mitchell

Amber N. Mitchell is recognized not only as the founding Curator of Black History at The Henry Ford but also as a dedicated public historian and educator. Her mission transcends traditional roles; it includes empowering communities of color to share their stories within cultural institutions. With a Master's in History from Indiana University and experience at various significant historical sites, Mitchell is committed to transforming nonprofit structures into inclusive spaces that reflect the richness of all communities.

Highlighting The Henry Ford

Located in Dearborn, Michigan, The Henry Ford is a globally recognized institution that plays a vital role in preserving and interpreting America's history of innovation and creativity. With its diverse venues—ranging from the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation to Greenfield Village—the organization invites individuals to engage with history in a meaningful way. Its commitment to educational outreach and community involvement is evident through events such as the upcoming voting rights presentation.

For those interested in attending the event or learning more about the Voting Rights Act and its impact, registration details can be found on the Detroit Public Library's website or through Eventbrite. This is a unique opportunity to reflect on the power of voting as a means of social change and to engage in discussions that shape our future. Join us in honoring the legacy of those who fought tirelessly for equal rights and ensure that the lessons of our past guide us as we move forward toward a more just society.