Quilt of Dreams, Atlanta

The Quilt of Dreams is a symbolic landmark that captures the city's aspirational journey towards hosting the 1996 Olympic Games. This quilt is not made of fabric, but of memories and the collective ambition of a group of visionaries who believed in the potential of their city. The narrative begins as early as 1990 when a dedicated committee of local business leaders and influential figures, including Ivan Allen III, son of former Mayor Ivan Allen Jr., rallied to support the idea of bringing the Olympics to Atlanta. Their names and contributions are immortalized on a bench at the site, reminding visitors of the roots of this dream.

Central to the narrative of the Quilt of Dreams is the Atlanta 9, a volunteer group whose tireless efforts were pivotal in securing the Olympic bid. These individuals, from various walks of life, represent the community’s involvement and the grassroots support that fueled the bid. Their names proudly displayed on a plaque signify the democratic and collective effort that underpinned the city's campaign. This aspect of the quilt emphasizes that while influential leaders provided necessary support, the heart of the Olympic bid was powered by community spirit and volunteerism.

Dominating the center of the Quilt of Dreams is a statue of Billy Payne, whose role was crucial in transforming the Olympic dream into reality. As the visionary who first proposed Atlanta as an Olympic host in 1987, Payne mobilized support from key figures including Mayor Andrew Young. His leadership as president and CEO of the Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games is commemorated with him holding an Olympic torch, symbolizing the light of aspiration and achievement that he brought to the city. Payne's idea and the collective effort it sparked led to a surprising victory when the International Olympic Committee awarded the bid to Atlanta in 1990, a testament to the power of conviction and collaboration.