Explore extremism and community safety at CELL in Denver

The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL) in Denver reopened its exhibit this past spring after a five-year hiatus, aiming to educate the public about the threats posed by violent extremism. The exhibit, created in response to the 9/11 attacks, has been updated to reflect current security challenges facing the United States. Visitors engage with interactive displays and multimedia presentations that explore the root causes of extremism and the role individuals can play in preventing terrorism. James Hippensteel, the manager of education and programs at The CELL, emphasizes that terrorism is driven by ideological motives and aims to instill fear. The exhibit seeks to dispel myths surrounding extremist ideologies and highlights how political rhetoric can be weaponized to promote hate. It also showcases examples of leaders who have risen to combat hatred and bigotry, providing visitors with techniques to identify hate speech. The CELL encourages educational visits, particularly from students, who spend 60 to 90 minutes exploring the content. The exhibit includes a 'Champion Change' section, where visitors learn about combating hatred through the voices of notable figures, including Zanaib Al-Suwaij, Lady Gaga, and former Presidents Bush and Obama. This part of the exhibit emphasizes the importance of love, faith, and courage in fighting against extremism. Ultimately, the CELL aims to foster a better understanding of how extremism can affect individuals from all backgrounds, empowering visitors to recognize and address the threats posed by violent ideologies in their communities.