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Veterans and Military Service Members Receive Free Admission to National Center for Civil and Human Rights with Support from The Home Depot Foundation

May 13, 2021

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights (The Center) and The Home Depot Foundation are providing free admission to The Center for veterans and current military service members on significant dates in May, National Military Appreciation Month. 

Thanks to the generosity of The Home Depot Foundation, military personnel can take advantage of free admission on Armed Forces Day (Saturday, May 15) and during Memorial Day weekend (Saturday, May 29 – Monday, May 31). Accompanying family members will also receive a 20% discount on admission.

“The U.S. military upholds American ideals of freedom around the world,” said Jill Savitt, President & CEO of The Center. “Through our continued partnership with The Home Depot Foundation, we are honored to once again express our gratitude for service members’ bravery and sacrifice. At The Center, service members and veterans will be able to see the powerful stories of those democratic rights they serve courageously to advance."

Memorial Day celebrations began in 1868 to pay tribute to the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. In 1949, the Department of Defense created Armed Forces Day to combine Army, Navy, and Airforce Days in a single observance. 

“The Home Depot Foundation works to improve the homes and lives of our nation’s veterans and their families,” expressed Shannon Gerber, Executive Director of The Home Depot Foundation. “This program and partnership with The Center helps us propel our mission, as well as honor veterans year-round. We’re hopeful the resources and experiences available at The Center will help educate and drive positive, sustainable change everywhere.” 

All active duty, reserve, and veteran military personnel with proper identification (copy of form DD214, veteran ID card, driver’s license with veteran designation, or military ID card issued by the Armed Forces) will receive free admission to The Center. Accompanying family members will receive a 20% discount on admission. Military personnel may bring up to three guests on Armed Forces Day (May 15), and five guests during Memorial Day weekend (May 29-31). Tickets must be reserved in-person at The Center’s ticket window.  The Center has implemented a number of new health and safety protocols to ensure a safer environment for visitors and staff.

The Home Depot Foundation and The Center will also provide free admission to veterans during Veteran’s Day weekend in November, with 20% off admission for up to five guests. The Foundation has also sponsored free admission for the general public on Human Rights Day in December 2021. This partnership will continue into 2022.