Johnson County Museum receives National Museum Impact Award for transformative redlining initiative

The Johnson County Museum has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 Museum Impact Award from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), one of the highest national honors that recognizes museums that drive meaningful change in their communities and across the field.

The museum was recognized in the Programs category for its groundbreaking multi-platform initiative, REDLINED: Cities, Suburbs, and Segregation. Selected from institutions across the United States, the Johnson County Museum in Overland Park, KS is among a small group of awardees whose work demonstrates measurable, sustained impact within the museum field and in the communities they serve.

"This is a tremendous honor for our museum, our community, and the field," said Museum Director Dr. Mary McMurray. "With REDLINED, we set out to tell an honest and deeply local story about how our region shaped national policies and how national policies shaped our region. What we saw in response - from visitors, educators, civic leaders, and community partners - was a powerful desire to learn, reflect, and take action. This recognition affirms what we believe at our core - that local history museums play a vital role in civic life. At the Johnson County Museum, this work doesn't begin or end with a single exhibition. It's part of our daily commitment to connect people to the past in ways that help us better understand our present and shape a more informed future."

Opened in 2022, REDLINED: Cities, Suburbs, and Segregation drew more than 40,000 visitors and quickly became a catalyst for community dialogue across the Kansas City region. During its year-long run, the museum hosted more than 100 tours and programs and partnered with more than 20 organizations to explore the history and lasting legacies of redlining. Local media described the exhibition as "essential learning for anyone living here," underscoring its powerful resonance with audiences. What began as a temporary exhibition evolved into an ongoing initiative, which includes a companion publication, now in its third edition, a digital exhibition launched in 2024, and continued presentations to universities, civic organizations, industry groups and local governments. Recognized alongside nationally significant work that addresses complex civic and historical issues, REDLINED reflects a growing movement within museums to frame engagement as inclusive, topical and action oriented.

"This recognition is a proud moment for Johnson County and for the entire JCPRD team," said JCPRD Executive Director Jeff Stewart. "To see the Johnson County Museum recognized nationally alongside some of the most innovative work in the field speaks to the impact of this team and the importance of the stories they share that drives the museum field forward. It reflects our commitment to public service and underscores the role local institutions can play in shaping stronger, more connected communities."

REDLINED continues to shape the museum's work today. In 2025, the museum launched the Legacies of Redlining Summit, bringing together regional and national leaders to explore ongoing inequities and pathways for action. The initiative is also embedded in the museum's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, reinforcing a long-term commitment to inclusive storytelling, community engagement, and public impact to build a better world. This work is emblematic of the Johnson County Museum's approach as an American Alliance of Museums-accredited institution - connecting local history to contemporary life in ways that inform, engage, and inspire. Visitors can experience this commitment in the museum's current exhibition, Everyday Democracy: Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness in Johnson County which explores how democratic ideals are shaped, contested and lived in communities like Johnson County.

As a department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District, the Johnson County Museum connects people to the past to inspire a better future - an approach reflected in both its award-winning exhibitions and its ongoing partnerships across the region.

For more information about the ongoing REDLINED initiative and other related programs, visit JCPRD.com/museum for more information.

About the Johnson County Museum

Part of the Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center in Overland Park, Kan., this award-winning museum occupies the former King Louie West ice-skating rink. The space sets the stage for its signature exhibit, "Becoming Johnson County," where visitors journey through the county's agricultural roots, suburban growth and evolution into a diverse, thriving community.

The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, reflecting the highest standards of excellence and public service.

The museum offers quarterly Free Days to ensure broad community access. The next Free Day is Saturday, June 6, proudly sponsored by Panasonic Energy. Learn more and plan your visit at JCPRD.com/museum.