BIRMINGHAM, AL – Vulcan Park & Museum will host a free public panel discussion on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 PM in the Electra Room. Revolutionary Alabamians: People Who Made a Difference is a companion program to the museum’s current exhibition, and extends its central question into a compelling conversation: What does it truly mean to be revolutionary in Alabama?
The discussion is free and open to the public, though tickets are required for entry. Advance reservations are available here.
The exhibition, Revolutionary Roots, which opened Jan. 30, 2026, and runs through Jan. 10, 2027, honors Alabamians whose courage, resilience, and leadership helped shape both the state and the nation — many of them historically overlooked despite their lasting impact. The panel discussion carries that spirit forward, gathering three living voices who know firsthand what it costs and what it means to push for change in Alabama.
The conversation will explore how meaningful progress takes shape not only through protest and politics, but through art, education, public service, and community leadership. Panelists will reflect on their own turning points, the challenges of building something new in a state steeped in tradition, and what they hope to pass on to the next generation of Alabamians willing to do the work.
“As the nation marks its 250th anniversary, Revolutionary Roots offers an opportunity to reflect on the people who helped shape America through Alabama’s lens,” said Cynthia Cardona, President & CEO of Vulcan Park & Museum. “This panel brings that reflection into the present tense. These are not just stories from history books — they are people in our community, doing the work right now.”
The program will include a moderated discussion followed by an audience question-and-answer session. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as seating is limited.
FEATURED PANELISTS
Josh Coleman is an author, public servant, and community advocate serving as Deputy Director of the Office of Social Justice and Racial Equity for the City of Birmingham. He also serves as President of Central Alabama Pride. Coleman has built his career around advancing equity, inclusion, and access to joyful community spaces across Alabama.
Ashley M. Jones is an acclaimed writer, educator, and former Alabama Poet Laureate. She is the youngest person and the first person of color to hold the title in state history. Jones is also among the contemporary leaders featured in Revolutionary Roots. Through poetry, she explores themes of history, faith, family, and the Black experience in America.
Patricia Todd is a political activist and trailblazer who made history as Alabama’s first openly gay elected official. A former member of the Alabama House of Representatives, Todd has spent decades advocating for equality, workers’ rights, and social justice across the state.
EVENT DETAILS
What: Revolutionary Alabamians: People Who Made a Difference — A Panel Discussion in Conjunction with the Revolutionary Roots Exhibition
When: Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Electra Room, Vulcan Park & Museum, 1701 Valley View Drive, Birmingham, AL 35209
Admission: Free. Tickets are required for entry and must be reserved in advance. Reserve tickets HERE.
About Revolutionary Roots: Celebrating Alabama’s Unique History and Natural Beauty
Revolutionary Roots is Vulcan Park & Museum’s 2026 exhibition, presented in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary as part of the nationwide America250 commemoration.
The exhibition honors individuals whose courage, resilience, and leadership helped shape Alabama and the country, with many featured figures having been historically overlooked despite their lasting influence.
Through stories spanning civil rights, education, science, arts, and community leadership, Revolutionary Roots explores how Alabamians have helped redefine the state’s role in the broader American story.
The exhibition is anchored by Alabama’s distinction as the most biodiverse state in the nation and runs through Jan. 10, 2027. Exhibition panels are presented in both English and Spanish.