City of Dallas expands cultural education with the release of a Deep Ellum AR application

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture has introduced an innovative way to explore the history of Deep Ellum with the launch of the Freedom Trail App: Deep Ellum AR. The official announcement was made at 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Deep Ellum Community Center (2528 Elm St., Suite A, Dallas, TX 75226). This milestone event brought together city officials, cultural leaders, historians, and key stakeholders to celebrate the app’s role in making Dallas history more accessible to both residents and visitors.

An Interactive Journey Through Deep Ellum’s Past

The Freedom Trail App: Deep Ellum AR is a free, interactive mobile application designed to immerse users in the historical and cultural roots of Deep Ellum. Utilizing augmented reality (AR) technology, the app offers a guided tour through significant locations in Dallas’s history, stretching from the 1860s to the present day. Users can explore the impact of Black culture, the legacy of slavery, the importance of Juneteenth, and the broader historical context that shaped Deep Ellum.

Speaking on the app’s importance, Martine Elyse Philippe, Director of the Office of Arts and Culture, emphasized its educational and cultural value:

“We are proud to provide this educational resource for residents and visitors so they may learn more about the history of Deep Ellum as they visit. Having a free app available to remember and understand our Dallas history is important as we work together as a community to shape the present and prepare for the future.”

A Step Toward Racial Equity and Cultural Preservation

This initiative is not just a technological advancement but also a crucial part of the City of Dallas’s broader commitment to racial equity. The Freedom Trail App: Deep Ellum AR aligns with the 2018 Dallas Cultural Plan and the City of Dallas’s Racial Equity Plan, both of which focus on addressing racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities within the city.

By making history more engaging and accessible, this app ensures that the stories of Deep Ellum remain alive for future generations. Whether visitors are exploring the neighborhood for the first time or longtime residents are deepening their understanding, the app serves as a powerful tool for education, remembrance, and progress.