Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library statement on Woodrow Wilson and Race

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum bears the name of the 28th president of the United States who was born on its site in 1856. The mission of the institution is to promote an understanding of the life and times of President Woodrow Wilson, his impact on the world, and his relevance today and for the future. To that end, the staff of the museum and library present educational programs, curate exhibits, maintain archives, and guide tours of the former Presbyterian manse in which he was born. We make no excuses for Woodrow Wilson’s racist beliefs.

Our organization stands against racism, hatred and bigotry in all forms and we are committed to being a resource for honest, transparent and inclusive history. We learn from our past. The beliefs and actions of past presidents are particularly fertile areas of study by historians and the general public. This study should be encouraged because the knowledge gained can help us all better address issues that face us today and that will face us in the future.

The Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum is not a statue or a building named as a memorial to him. It is an educational institution devoted to the study of his life and the times in which he lived.

For this nation to heal, careful study of Wilson- and of all presidents- must continue.

Blog Articles:

Check out the selection of blogs about the different issues involving Wilson and race. Be sure to check out our entire selection on other topics as well.

• Woodrow Wilson’s Civil War >

• Frank T. Ware >

• The Occupation of Haiti >

• The Media Responds to a President >