Testimonial Booth and Wall
Inspired by the “I Am a Man” slogan of the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers strike, visitors become part of the exhibitry by adding their image and a declaration of their identity to an interactive wall.
Labels, for better or for worse, are essential to how we see ourselves and how others perceive us. The Testimonial Booth and Wall experience empowers visitors to choose their own label and project their preferred vision of themselves out into the museum.
When they enter the Testimonial Booth, guests are greeted by an interactive touchscreen inviting them to make their declaration. They capture their photo and write a message that fills in the blank however they see fit: “I am ________.” These contributions are added to an ever-expanding collection of user-generated submissions showcased on the gallery’s Testimonial Wall for all to see. Viewers can touch each display on the wall to view additional declarations, getting to know fellow museumgoers in the process.
The Wall also pays tribute to supporters and partners of the Center that have provided content for display. Through video pieces outlining their work, the efforts of the National Black McDonald’s Operators Association and Amnesty International, to name a few, are highlighted.