The National Civil Rights Museum will open the BlueCross Healthy Place at Founders Park, a new outdoor space designed for reflection, connection and community, on Oct. 4, 2025.
“Founders Park is part of setting the context for understanding our mission to honor Dr. King’s legacy, educate and serve as catalyst for positive social change,” said Russell Wigginton, president of the museum. “It allows visitors to get grounded in where they are upon entering the museum, and to have a reflective and community-oriented space to process what they have experienced after touring.”
The park, located at South Main and Mulberry Streets, includes walking paths, educational signage and a new Legacy Terrace overlooking the site where King was assassinated in 1968. Entry is free to the public, though admission still applies to museum exhibits.
Wigginton said the project is meant to inspire. “We want future generations to leave here with a sense of community and realization that they are part of something bigger than themselves,” he explained.
The park was made possible through a partnership with the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation. “The partnership with BCBST was essential. Their interest in creating healthy spaces for community — physical and mental — is aligned with our desires for our visitors. We know touring the museum can be an emotional experience. They have been wonderful partners and fully appreciate our desire to have a campus that is inviting and welcoming to all people,” Wigginton said.
Dalya Qualls White, executive director of the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation, said the collaboration is a manifestation of the foundation’s goal of creating spaces that bring communities together.
“We’re honored to partner with the National Civil Rights Museum to bring this shared vision for Founders Park to life,” she said. “BlueCross Healthy Places are about connection, and we look forward to seeing museum visitors and community members alike gather in this meaningful public space.”
The museum plans to center its major events at Founders Park, including King Day, the April 4th Commemoration, Juneteenth and the Ruby Bridges Reading Festival.
“This should be a place for invigoration, reflection and inspiration,” Wigginton said. “We want public festivals, individuals sitting in contemplation, and our diverse visitor portfolio to naturally be in community together.”
He also sees the project as a model for future collaborations.
“BCBST has modeled how a private foundation can enter a community with deep respect and appreciation for the culture of a location,” Wigginton said. “They have been respectful and considerate from day one, which has made the partnership enjoyable for the museum staff.”
The grand opening will feature live music, wellness activities and food trucks. Registration is recommended but not required.
“People should expect fun,” Wigginton said. “We are celebrating the role of the museum to continue to be the town square for the community. We are here for the trials and tribulations and now we have the exterior space to match the interior space to challenge, inspire and reflect all dimensions of our society.”
See a sneak peek of the park here:
