Event is Part of Annual Ali Festival June 3-13, Honoring the Five Year Passing of Muhammad Ali
It is rare for items from the Muhammad Ali Center’s Archives to be made available to the general public, which is why the Center chose to hold an “Open House at the Archives” during the annual Ali Festival, taking place June 3-13. The Center’s Archival Library will be open to the public on June 8th from 12:30-4:30pm. Visitors will also have the opportunity to interact with the Ali Center’s Collections & Exhibits staff during that time.
The purpose of the Muhammad Ali Center archival collection is to acquire, preserve and manage the documentary, photographic, artistic, film, audio, video, electronic, and three dimensional items of Muhammad’s Ali’s life and career: As an athlete, humanitarian, and public figure.
A few of the choice items to be displayed are:
- An Ali-Liston (Fights I and II) Theme featuring: An original 1964 Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston fight poster, on loan from Doug and Joyce Hall, in memory of their son Jeff.
- Artifacts from The Plohn Collection, featuring a legal “prospectus” from The Champburger Restaurant (c.1968). This display will also showcase an article from Ebony Magazine that makes mention of the “Champburger.”
- 1960 Rome Olympics Autograph Book, signed by Muhammad Ali (as Cassius Clay), donated to the Ali Center in 2018 by Ernest, Jr.; Carolyn; and Jennifer Siracusa.
- Muhammad Ali Memorial Mementos, that showcase some of the items left on the Ali Center Plaza by mourners and admirers following Muhammad’s death on June 3, 2016.
The Muhammad Ali Center uses its collection for educational, cultural, and scholarly purposes and to support and carry out its mission.
In addition to “Open House at the Archives,” Ali Festival Events throughout the 10-day Festival include:
- Roses & Remembrance for Muhammad: A Community Invitation to Cave Hill: The Ali Center and Cave Hill Cemetery invite the public to pay their respects to Muhammad on the five-year anniversary of his passing by visiting his gravesite on June 3rd from 12:00 noon-3:00pm. Upon arrival, visitors will be given a rose of remembrance and a $2 off admission coupon to the Ali Center that can be used throughout the Ali Festival, June 3-13.
- Daily screenings throughout the week of City of Ali, a documentary that tells the story of how Muhammad’s death unified his hometown of Louisville—as well as the world—featuring candid interviews and thoughtful reflections from visitors and observers during that week. Visitors can purchase tickets in advance at https://alicenter.org/ali-fest/. Tickets will also be available on-site prior to screenings, but only if seats are available.
- Ali Community Bus: Just as Muhammad Ali used to visit neighborhoods throughout his hometown, Louisvillians can relive this experience by welcoming the Ali Community Bus at community centers in their part of town on June 7, 9, and 11. The bus will deliver the spirit and love of Muhammad to the people. Ali Center staff will share activities, including games, demonstrations, care packages, and more. Details on where the Ali Bus will be stopping are at https://alicenter.org/ali-fest/.
- Youth Poetry and Art Contest: The Ali Center is seeking student artists, grades K-12, to submit poetry or art based on specific Ali-related themes. Winners will receive prizes. Details are available
- Muhammad and LeRoy: A Friendship in Art Digital Exhibit, in recognition of Muhammad Ali and LeRoy Neiman’s friendship and to commemorate what would have been Mr. Neiman’s 100th birthday on June 8th. The exhibit will be launching on June 8th. More information can be found
- “Open House” at the Ali Center’s Archival Library: Also on June 8th, on-site visitors will have the rare opportunity to view special artifacts brought out of its archives and to interact with the Center’s Collections & Exhibits staff during this time. Open from 12:30-4:30pm.
- “I Am America” Online Series: On June 9th, our virtual series will focus on Islamophobia. Participants will hear from panelists, who will discuss how it has long been a part of racism and prejudice within the United States. The discussion will focus on the intersections of racism and religion specifically through the lens of Muslim Americans, and will conclude with suggestions for compassionate action and inclusive community-building. Register HERE.
- Ali Festival Eats and Treats: Give your taste buds a treat by enjoying special Ali-themed food fun. Participating restaurants/hotels include:
- The Galt House with Muhammad Ali’s Bread Pudding, Ali’s favorite dessert and his chef’s original recipe. Served at both Galt House restaurants, Swizzle and Walker’s Exchange
- The new Grady Hotel with the Muhammad Ali Appetizer Special of Soup & Dumplings, served at the Wild Swann Restaurant
- Mark’s Feed Store, on June 2nd and 3rd, 15% of pre-tax purchases made will be donated to the Ali Center when presenting a flyer that can be found on
- Messages for Muhammad: Businesses throughout the city are encouraged to display a sign on the windows of their place of business to help relive the community spirit that Louisville shared around Ali’s passing.
Please continue to visit the Ali Center’s website, www.alicenter.org for updates and new events.