The Power of Children: Making a Difference will share the extraordinary stories of Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges and Ryan White — children whose lives teach us about overcoming obstacles to make a difference in the world. The new permanent exhibit will engage children and families in activities that address the issues of isolation, fear and prejudice throughout 20th century history and today. Experience the recreated Secret Annex where Anne Frank spent two years in hiding from Nazi soldiers; the first-grade classroom in which Ruby Bridges spent an entire school year alone with her teacher Mrs. Henry; and Ryan White’s bedroom, filled with the items from his friends and the celebrities who took on Ryan’s cause, all donated by his mother Jeanne White-Ginder.

Distinguished guests: Barbara Henry, First Grade Teacher to Ruby Bridges, Phillip Hoose, author We Were There Too, Dr. Martin Kleiman, Ryan White’s Physician, Dr. Lawrence J. Pigeaux, Jr., Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Jill Stewart Waibel, Friend and Schoolmate of Ryan White. Rian Verhoeven: Representative of Anne Frank House, Andrea White, Sister of Ryan White

• Immediately following the grand opening at 10:45 a.m. a Tree Planting Ceremony - trees, donated by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, will be planted on the newly developed green space at the corner of 30th and Meridian Streets by members of the Indianapolis Boy Scouts of America.
• Creation Band Performances at 1 and 3 p.m. in Lilly Theater, Lower Level – New York based Creation is made up of five teenagers dedicated to diminishing global hatred and promoting peace. All of Creation’s proceeds go to charitable organizations in the hope of inspiring children everywhere to use their talents to help make a more peaceful world. They express their commitment to these ideals through their music: making the world a better place, one beat at a time.
• Philanthropy Fair – throughout the day twenty organizations will provide ways for families to “take action” and make a difference in the world. Participating organizations throughout the museum will provide information on philanthropic opportunities for children and families.
• Sunday, November 11 at 2 p.m. - Creation Live Performance and Post- Discussion. Creation will again offer a live performance.