Tavis Smiley Organizers announced America I AM: The African American Imprint will be extended for an additional three weeks at the Atlanta Civic Center.

Originally slated to close Sept. 6, 2009, the exhibition will remain open through Sunday, Sept. 27 to accommodate public demand and requests to continue the exhibition into the school term.

America I AM: The African American Imprint is a touring exhibition presented by broadcaster Tavis Smiley that celebrates nearly 500 years of African American contributions to this country. The nearly 15,000 square-foot exhibition leads visitors on a journey from struggle to triumph to celebration and underscores the undeniable imprint of African Americans across the nation and around the world.

“By journeying through the stories and events of the past presented in this exhibition, we hope the leaders of the future are inspired to reflect upon the imprints they want to make,” said Tavis Smiley. “The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the diverse contributions that African Americans have made to the American mosaic while underscoring that each of us as human beings can leave an imprint. Continuing the exhibition into the school year gives more young people the opportunity to further its spirit in years to come.”

An interactive area allows visitors to leave their own video “imprints,” a collection that will grow throughout the tour with the potential to become the largest recorded oral history project in U.S. history.

America I AM: The African American Imprint is developed in partnership with Tavis Smiley, and is organized by Arts and Exhibitions International (AEI) and Cincinnati Museum Center.

America I AM is made possible by Walmart Stores, Inc., which serves as its presenting sponsor. As part of its commitment, Walmart is offering discounted exhibition tickets at Walmart stores throughout Georgia. Details on Walmart’s ticket offerings can be found at www.AmericaIAM.org .

“At Walmart we have a commitment to diversity that extends beyond the walls of our stores and Clubs. Our support of America I AM is an extension of this ongoing commitment,” said Rosalind Brewer, senior vice president & president for the Southeast Division of Walmart Stores, Inc.

Support from the exhibition’s educational partner Northern Trust has made it possible to avail 100,000 free tickets to Georgia youth through community and religious organizations, businesses, gatherings and festivals.

Microsoft is the technology partner for the tour, including helping to relaunch the exhibition’s web site at www.AmericaIAM.org in conjunction with the Atlanta opening.

The exhibition is open six days a week and is closed on Mondays. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays; and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Parking is available in the Civic Center lot accessible from Ralph McGill Blvd.

Tickets are available at Ticketmaster (www.Ticketmaster.com) or 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are purchased for a specific date, and are $12 for adults; $5 for children ages 4-17; and $8 for seniors over age 65, as well as for groups of 10 or more. Discounted tickets are available at Walmart stores throughout Georgia ($10 adult; $4 child).

An audio tour featuring commentary by Tavis Smiley and Dr. Cornel West is available for $3.