Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute unveils KultureCity’s 1,000th sensory room
Reading time: 3 minutes
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) opened KultureCity’s 1,000th sensory room, expanding its commitment to accessibility and inclusion for all visitors.
Located at the end of BCRI’s permanent interpretive galleries detailing the American Civil Rights Movement (1955–1963) and beyond, the sensory room provides a calming, supportive environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism and other neurodivergent conditions.
Sensory room is about inclusion and dignity
The project, which was made possible through the support of Andrew Wyatt and his family, is deeply personal for BCRI President and CEO Deborah Bowie, who has a child with profound non-verbal autism.
“As a mom, I think a lot about where we can go, where my entire family is welcome. And so when I arrived back here in Birmingham and started having conversations with Dr. Maha at KultureCity and Pastor Price, we started talking about the direct correlation between the Civil Rights Institute, the district and people who live with hidden disabilities.
“That through-line is human dignity and the right to exist, be present and to be included. That’s what today really, really represents, not just the dedication of a room, but an effort by the Institute to say you’re welcome here, you’re included. You have a right to be here.”
BCRI President and CEO Deborah Bowie
In addition to the sensory room, BCRI is beginning the process of becoming a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certified location, reflecting a broader institutional commitment to accessibility.
As part of this effort, at least 50% of BCRI’s public-facing staff will complete specialized training developed by medical professionals and neurodivergent individuals.
This training is designed to equip staff to recognize and support guests with invisible disabilities, including autism, PTSD, dementia and anxiety, ensuring a more inclusive and responsive visitor experience.
Why KultureCity sensory rooms matter
KultureCity’s founder Julian Maha described why having a sensory room at the Institute matters while pointing to a mural in the room.
“The goal for today is to celebrate Mr. Andrew Wyatt, thank you for believing in KultureCity. Thank you for seeing the potential and the fact that everyone deserves equal access “I see that saying up there (on a mural) — ‘We all share a common bond.’ It’s the human bond. That’s the power of KultureCity.
“Thank you, Mayor Woodfin, for your amazing leadership. KultureCity could not exist in any other city in the world. It had to exist right here in Birmingham, Alabama.”
In addition to BCRI, KultureCity sensory rooms are being constructed inside the 16th Street Baptist Church and its new visitor center.
There are sensory rooms throughout Birmingham
- The BJCC campus, Legacy Arena and Protective Stadium
- Additional venues, such as the Concert Hall and Theatre, provide sensory-inclusive amenities upon request
- Coca-Cola Amphitheater
- The Birmingham CrossPlex
- Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
- Birmingham Zoo
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