Regions Bank announced Monday that it is granting $75,000 to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute (BCRI) to help offset revenue losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

BCRI is currently in the midst of raising $750,000 before the end of the year to keep operating, meaning the Regions grant covers 10% of the total fundraising goal.

The main focus of the BCRI is currently virtual education and research because the museum remains closed to visitors during the pandemic. Tickets and merchandise sales paid by in-person visitors accounted for a large percent of the institution’s revenue before COVID-19.

The $750,000 being raised is to allow the BCRI’s digital education and research projects to continue.

“We deeply appreciate the support of Regions and other donors that have supported us at this time,” remarked Isaac M. Cooper, chairman of the BCRI Board of Directors in a release.

“There is a hunger for a deeper understanding of the struggle for racial and economic justice,” continued Cooper. “In this current national climate as our society addresses issues of race and justice, the presence of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is needed now more than ever to provide leadership on racial justice, diversity and equity.”

A portrait of civil rights leader John Lewis housed at the BCRI was recently used in the program distributed at his memorial.

The institute says it will reopen doors to visitors when the leadership feels it is safe to do so.

“A visit to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is an experience like none other, and we owe it to current and future generations to ensure the BCRI is well positioned to continue fulfilling its mission,” said Leroy Abrahams, head of community affairs for Regions Bank.

Abrahams added, “This is a time for Birmingham’s business community, the philanthropic community, and individual donors to come together. We have a world-class – and world-renowned – institute that vividly reflects our history and boldly inspires those who visit to stand for equality.”

“During 2020, a year in which we’ve faced a global pandemic while also confronting the need for greater racial equity throughout our society, it is essential to unite and help ensure the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute has the resources it needs to continue reaching and informing our community, nation and world,” he concluded.

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: henry@new-yhn.local or on Twitter @HenryThornton95