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GCDD and Partners to Celebrate Grand Opening of “Embracing Possibility” Exhibit at Harriet Tubman Museum in Macon, Georgia

Written by Tianna Faulkner on .

April 16, 2025 - (Atlanta, GA) - The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) is excited to announce opening of the Embracing Possibility: Georgia’s Disability Justice Journey exhibit at the Tubman African American Museum Sunday, May 18, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Macon, Georgia.

GCDD has partnered with Derek’s Doodles, Inclusion Press, the Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) at the University of Georgia, the Georgia Advocacy Office (GAO), Crimminz & Associates, the Center for Leadership in Disability (CLD) at Georgia State University, the Southern Poverty Law Center of Georgia, Sangha Unity Network, Walton Options, Wesley Glen Ministries, Dr. Beth Mount, and many other disability advocates throughout the state of Georgia collaborated to create an exhibit that celebrates Georgia’s disability community.

“It is just thrilling that the museum is hosting the Embracing Possibilities exhibit. We all have our disabilities. Some of us know it and some of us don’t. It is wonderful that the Tubman will host this engaging and thought-provoking exhibit that will speak to so many people. I am so grateful for the work that the planning committee and all the contributing artists have done to make the exhibit a reality,” said Richard Kiel, Founder of the Tubman Museum.

Founded in 1981, the Tubman Museum strives to explore, celebrate, and share the rich art and history of African Americans. It serves as a center of social and civic engagement and a source of experiences that enrich cultural understanding and inspire positive change.

Harriet Tubman, known for her bravery and leadership as a conductor on the Underground Railroad in the fight against slavery and an advocate for women’s rights, also lived with a disability. She sustained a traumatic brain injury in her youth, resulting in lifelong seizures and narcoleptic episodes. Tubman's resilience in the face of barriers embodies the spirit of the disability rights movement and emphasizes the strength and capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

The Harriet Tubman Museum honors Tubman's legacy of fighting for freedom for enslaved people despite barriers. Hosting the exhibit at this museum underscores the historical and symbolic connection between Tubman's legacy and the disability justice movement. It is a fitting venue for the exhibit on Georgia's Disability Justice History due to Tubman's own experiences with disability and her enduring legacy as a symbol of resilience and empowerment. This connection enhances the exhibit's impact and allows visitors to appreciate the contributions of individuals with disabilities.
“The Embracing Possibility: Georgia’s Disability Justice Journey exhibit showcases the significant impact Georgians have had on the disability rights movement. Their stories of advocacy, dedication, and innovation are crucial to understanding the full spectrum of human potential. This exhibit offers the public a chance to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the contributions of people with disabilities. We are proud to present this rich and powerful history,” said Maria Pinkelton, Public Relations Director of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities and Embracing Possibility Planning Committee Member.

The museum is located at 310 Cherry Street, Macon, GA 31201. The grand opening of The Embracing Possibility Exhibit is a free event, but registration is required.

To register for this event, click the following link:

https://embracingpossibilityexhibit.eventbrite.com

For more information about the Embracing Possibility Exhibit, visit www.gcdd.org.

About the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities: The mission of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is to bring about social and policy changes that promote opportunities for the wide spectrum of diverse people with developmental disabilities and their families to live, learn, lead, work, play and worship in their communities. www.gcdd.org

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