The interactive exhibit explores freedom, moral courage and collective action as the Museum builds momentum toward its summer presentation of Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition
DALLAS (Jan. 13, 2026) – The African American Museum, Dallas presents Icons of liberation: King and Mandela, an educational and interactive exhibit exploring the shared leadership values and global impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. The exhibit opens Thursday, Jan. 15, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and will be on view through April 17, 2026. Free and open to the public, the Museum is located in the heart of historic Fair Park at 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas 75210.
Designed as a learning-centered experience, Icons of Liberation: King and Mandela invites children, families, educators and community groups to actively explore ideas of citizenship, leadership and standing for justice. Rather than a traditional walk-through, do-not-touch exhibit, the gallery features interactive activity stations that encourage visitors to pause, reflect, read, write and engage with the material in meaningful ways.
The exhibit also serves as a thematic introduction to the Museum’s upcoming presentation, Nelson Mandela: The Official Exhibition, opening June 13, 2026, and on view through Nov. 1, 2026.
Through photographs, historical texts, interpretive panels and hands-on learning tools, visitors are introduced to King and Mandela as central Icons of Liberation while also encountering additional local and national figures whose lives reflect courage, service and collective responsibility. These layered stories invite visitors to form personal connections and consider leadership as a daily practice grounded in values.
The exhibit further extends learning beyond the gallery by connecting the space to the Museum’s Carol and Royce West Library and Research Center. Visitors are welcomed into the reading room to browse selected materials from the African American Museum archives and library collections, encouraging deeper exploration, literacy and reflection. This intentional connection transforms a gallery visit into an extended learning experience rooted in primary sources and cultural history.
Icons of Liberation: King and Mandela is part of the Museum’s broader “Icons of Liberation” initiative, which uses education and public engagement to explore leadership across generations. Student activity materials and group-friendly learning experiences are available to support school visits, youth programs, faith communities and nonprofit organizations.
Admission is free. The Museum is open Tuesdays through Fridays from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free self-parking is available in nearby lots.
To make group reservations for 10 or more, contact dstephenson@aamdallas.org. For more information, go to aamdallas.org.
