Birmingham’s Historic 16th Street Baptist Church along with Civil Rights sites statewide secure Park Service grants 

Last week, the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service announced $12.6 million in grants for 51 projects in 24 states that preserve sites and highlight stories related to the African American struggle for equality in the 20th century.

Alabama Civil Rights sites were awarded over $2.3 million for 9 projects, including a $500,000 grant for the preservation, repair and restoration of the 16th Street Baptist Church.

“I am beyond thrilled that the $13 million we worked hard to get into the National Parks Service budget last year will help togas  protect historic sites in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District,” said Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL).

Alabama has five National Park units dedicated to the African American Civil Rights history, including the newly designated Birmingham Civil Rights and Freedom Riders National Monuments.

“We’re excited and elated about this grant opportunity, it helps us continue to preserve this historic treasure and share Birmingham’s story with the World,” said Pastor Arthur Price Jr. of the 16th St. Baptist Church. “I’d like to thank Congresswoman Sewell, The National Park Service and Dr. Neal Berte for making sure that we continue to stay on sound footing.”

Along with the grant given to the 16th Street Baptist Church, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute secured a $44,918 grant.

Here is the list of Alabama 2017 Department of Interior/National Park Service Civil Rights grants.