PIGEON FORGE, Tennessee (April 29, 2019) – Murdered 25 years ago this June, Nicole Brown Simpson would have celebrated her 60th birthday on May 19, 2019. In her memory, Alcatraz East Crime Museum is turning the focus on domestic violence, offering a temporary exhibit dedicated to who Nicole was as a daughter, sister, and mother, and the devastating impact of domestic violence. The exhibit will open on May 17, 2019 and will run for three months.
“Domestic violence is a major problem that doesn’t get the attention it should,” explains Rachael Penman, director of artifacts and exhibits at Alcatraz East Crime Museum. “We wanted to turn the focus back on Nicole’s story, and how devastating the fear of domestic violence can be, as well as celebrate the special person she was to so many.”
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), reports that 1 in every 4 women and 1 in every 9 men experience severe intimate partner physical violence. They also report that on a typical day there are more than 20,000 phone calls around the country that are placed to domestic violence hotlines.
“Passion for Life: Nicole Brown Simpson” will honor Nicole and through her help raise awareness about the warning signs of domestic violence. Some of the artifacts in the exhibit that belonged to Nicole include:
- A place setting of her china, reflecting her love of entertaining.
- Favorite pieces of clothing and Chanel jewelry.
- A handwritten poem that was read at her funeral by her sister Tanya.
- Photos from the Brown family, going back to Nicole’s childhood.
- The exhibit will also feature the original song and music video I Remember Nicole by two-time Emmy Award winner Renee Sotile and Mary Jo Godges. Working as a video-journalist, Renee covered the trial of Nicole’s ex-husband O.J. Simpson and never forgot the impact Nicole’s death made on her. Renee and Mary Jo wanted to find a way for the world to remember Nicole’s story and all women who continue to suffer from domestic abuse.
“It’s hard to believe that it has been 25 years since the world violently lost my sister, who was a beautiful soul,” says Tanya Brown, Nicole’s youngest sister. “I’m touched that there is a chance to honor her memory with this exhibit and I hope that it brings domestic violence as an issue to the forefront, so that we can bring it to an end.”
Those in immediate danger from domestic violence should call 9-1-1. There is also anonymous and confidential help available 24/7 for those who need it. For help, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.
Many are familiar with the famous O.J. Simpson white Ford Bronco chase scene that played out on television. Yet, we tend to forget what he was running from, that he was wanted in connection with the murders of Nicole and Ronald Goldman. Nicole and Ron were found murdered outside of her home on June 12, 1994. Simpson, who Nicole had divorced in 1992, was found not guilty in the criminal trial. However, Simpson was found liable for both deaths in a civil suit and ordered to pay the families of the victims $33.5 million. The white Bronco from the chase is also on display at the museum.
The museum is always adding to its collection and has a star-studded panel of experts who make up the Advisory Board, including those in law enforcement, collectors, a medical examiner, crime scene investigators, and others. The board includes Jim Willett, a retired prison warden, Anthony Rivera, a combat veteran and Navy SEAL chief, and Judge Belvin Perry, Jr., who is best known for the Casey Anthony trial. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: www.alcatrazeast.com.
