EDUCATION & GROUPS
A Living Classroom for Every Student
Mandela: The Official Exhibition offers unparalleled educational value for students, teachers, and community groups. Free admission for all school and community groups.
Why Bring Your Students
A Living Classroom
Mandela: The Official Exhibition was developed with education at its core. The exhibition traces a life that spans some of the twentieth century’s most important events — colonialism, institutionalized racism, resistance, imprisonment, diplomacy, democracy, and reconciliation. It raises questions that are as relevant today as they were in Mandela’s lifetime.
The exhibition is particularly recommended for students aged 11 and older. Its content is presented in clear, layered, and deeply engaging ways — designed to reach both the intellect and the heart.
Educational Materials for Mandela: the Official Exhibition
Free Admission
No admission fee for school groups or community groups. All students welcome.
Ages 11 & Up
Recommended for secondary school and college students. All ages welcome.
Docent-Led Tours
Guided tours available for school groups. Request when booking.
What Students Will Learn
Curriculum Connections Across Subjects
History & Social Studies
U.S. and World History, Civics and Government, African American Studies, Social Justice and Human Rights
Language Arts & Media
Language Arts, Composition, Media Studies, Critical Thinking, Communication
Arts, Culture & Leadership
Cultural Studies, Arts and Visual Culture, Leadership and Ethics, Community Engagement, Geography
What Students Take Away
Learning Outcomes
- ✦ Describe the origins, structure, and impact of apartheid in South Africa
- ✦ Explain Mandela's role in the anti-apartheid movement and his path to the presidency
- ✦ Analyze primary sources including letters, speeches, and artifacts from Mandela's life
- ✦ Connect themes of justice, resistance, and reconciliation to contemporary contexts
- ✦ Reflect on their own values and sense of civic responsibility
For Educators
Discussion Questions by Gallery
How did Nelson Mandela’s Thembu upbringing shape his approach to leadership? What role does cultural identity play in shaping who we become?
Mandela had to choose between personal safety and doing what he believed was right. Have you ever faced a situation where doing the right thing came at a cost? What did you do?
Mandela spent 27 years in prison. How did he resist having his spirit broken? What does it mean to maintain your dignity in the face of dehumanization?
When Mandela was released, South Africa was on the brink of civil war. How did his leadership help prevent it? What qualities of leadership were most important?Mandela chose reconciliation over retribution. Do you think this was the right approach? What would you have done in his position?
Contact Us
Book Your Group Visit
To book a docent-led group visit or school trip, contact the African American Museum Dallas:
Email: info@aamdallas.org | Website: aamdallas.org
Address: 3536 Grand Avenue, Dallas, TX 75210 | Dates: June 13 – November 1, 2026