Published on: August 26, 2025, 07:10h.
Updated on: August 26, 2025, 07:10h.
- Sharpton praises commitment, calling it “historic”
- The donation will aid in developing a civil rights museum in Manhattan
Today, the groups aiming to establish a casino hotel in Times Square, New York City, revealed a $15 million pledge to support the construction of a civil rights museum in Manhattan.
Caesars Entertainment, Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, and SL Green — the entities behind the Caesars Palace Times Square bid — are committed to help build the Museum of Civil Rights, which will be situated in Manhattan. This casino consortium collaborates closely with the Civil Rights Foundation.
“Investments like these distinguish this gaming proposal from others, showcasing a genuine dedication to the community they wish to join. We deeply appreciate this support and anticipate bringing this project to fruition,” stated Rev. Al Sharpton.
News about Caesars Palace Times Square’s contribution to the Museum of Civil Rights surfaced two months following Sharpton’s endorsement of the gaming initiative.
Caesars Times Square Offering Numerous Benefits
The proposed $5.4 billion Caesars Palace Times Square, among other bids for three NYC-area casino licenses, promises a variety of community advantages.
The Caesars team has proposed assistance for Broadway workers seeking employment during breaks in their theater careers, along with plans for enhancements in public safety and several healthcare projects.
“This commitment (to the Museum of Civil Rights) is a component of Caesars Palace Times Square’s overall $250 million investment in public benefits, which also encompasses public safety, workforce development, emergency medical services, and health equity initiatives throughout Times Square and nearby communities,” as stated in the press release.
Caesars, Roc Nation, and SL Green estimate that Caesars Palace Times Square will generate 3,000 construction jobs and 3,800 permanent positions while yielding $7 billion in direct tax revenue during its first decade of operation.
Opposition Persists to Caesars Times Square Casino
Despite the ambitious promises and financial pledges aimed at earning goodwill from New Yorkers, there remains significant opposition to the proposed casino in the heart of Manhattan. Some stakeholders have voiced strong opposition for some time.
The dissent took a new direction recently when owners of 24 Broadway theaters distributed pamphlets in copies of Playbill, urging attendees to oppose the Times Square gaming establishment. The arts community fears that a casino will keep patrons engaged in gambling rather than supporting local dining and shows.
Additional local businesses and educational organizations express opposition to the Times Square casino proposal, though there is also backing from certain members of the theater community, local eateries, organized labor groups, and other business entities.