We believe understanding the past can help shape a better future.
The Eastern State Center for Justice Education informs, challenges, and empowers people to think critically about America’s justice system. Through education, events, and workforce development programs, we encourage the free-flowing exchange of ideas to inspire a more just, equitable world.
FOR EDUCATORS
Educate. Engage. Empower.
From classroom-ready lesson plans to tours, workshops, and professional development opportunities, we offer content that accommodates a wide variety of learning styles and subject matter, featuring expertise from universities, school districts, and thought leaders across the country. Together, we can shape a transformative learning experience that connects past to present and encourages critical thinking about the pathways forward.
LEARN MOREFOR EVERYONE
Learn. Discuss. Share.
Through online programs and videos, you’ll hear from experts, justice-impacted individuals, youth, and the public to foster a deeper understanding of the evolution and impacts of the justice system and justice reform in America. Together, we’ll build connections, community, and conversation, inspiring a more just future.
LEARN MOREThe Collaboratory for Justice Education
The Collaboratory for Justice Education, powered by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education, is a dynamic community of dedicated and enthusiastic people with a shared passion for justice education.
LEARN MOREAdditional Resources
Classroom Resources
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Justice 101
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Professional Learning Opportunities
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Unlocking History
LEARN MOREPlan a Group Visit
With virtual, in-person, guide-led, and self-guided options, there’s something for everyone at Eastern State. Learn more and make your group reservation today.
Upcoming Justice Education Events
Justice 101
Monday, September 01 - Friday, July 31, 2026
Join us as we dive into some of the most pressing issues in criminal justice today, through a historical lens and with a focus on civic education. Each program includes interactive online or in-person elements, expert voices, and opportunities for community dialogue. Powered by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education.
CANCELLED - Food and Nutrition Education at the Philadelphia Prison
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Due to inclement weather, this event has been cancelled. The Food Trust and the Pennsylvania Prison Society invite you to a panel discussion at Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site on empowering incarcerated individuals with nutrition knowledge and the need to improve prison food.
Justice 101: Prison Gerrymandering
Sunday, March 01, 2026
All Day
Date and time TBD, check back for updates! Join us for a conversation on prison gerrymandering, a practice that distorts our democratic process and dilutes the political power of communities across the nation.
Civic Learning Week
Sunday, March 08 - Friday, March 13, 2026
Designed for students (6-12th grade), educators, policymakers, and community leaders to collectively raise awareness and promote civic education across the United States.
Preservation Trades Center Information Sessions
Tuesday, March 10 - Thursday, March 12, 2026
Interested in a career in the trades? Through paid, on-the-job training, Preservation Trades Center (PTC) crew members work alongside expert craft workers and prepare for a career in the trades while preserving Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark. No prior experience required.
Preservation Trades Center Virtual Information Session
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Taking place online via Zoom. Interested in a career in the trades? Through paid, on-the-job training, Preservation Trades Center (PTC) crew members work alongside expert craft workers and prepare for a career in the trades while preserving Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark. No prior experience required.
Justice 101: The Business of Second Chances: Economic Empowerment for Justice-Involved Women
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free. In honor of Reentry and Restorative Justice Day, join us for a conversation on the challenges and opportunities for women as they reenter society post-incarceration.
Preservation Trades Center In-Person Information Session
Thursday, March 12, 2026
10:00am - 11:00am
Taking place at PowerCorpsPHL. Interested in a career in the trades? Through paid, on-the-job training, Preservation Trades Center (PTC) crew members work alongside expert craft workers and prepare for a career in the trades while preserving Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark. No prior experience required.
Scout Days
Sunday, March 15 - Saturday, November 14, 2026
Led by our engaging staff, all Scout Days participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements.
Virtual Scout Day
Sunday, March 15, 2026
11:00am - 2:15pm
Led by our expert staff and partners with expertise in historic preservation, architecture, and construction trades, scouts will enjoy a full day of virtual, interactive discussions and activities.
Justice 101: From Rosa Parks to Joan Little: A screening and conversation about Civil Rights and Criminal Justice Education
Thursday, April 16, 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free event. Advance registration required. Join us for a screening of the documentary “Free Joan Little” followed by a discussion with director Yoruba Richen.
In Person Scout Day
Sunday, April 19, 2026
10:00am - 4:30pm
Led by our engaging staff, all In-Person Scout Day participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements.
Justice 101: Philly Saves: Adaptive Reuse of Sites of Memory and Trauma
Thursday, May 21, 2026
5:30pm - 8:00pm
This discussion examines how we steward the physical legacy of our democracy, including prisons, churches, burial grounds, homes, shopping centers, and factories and how these sites can be reclaimed as spaces of civic dialogue, healing, and community life
Justice 101: The History and Meaning of Juneteenth Today
Monday, June 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: The History of the Justice System in England and America
Wednesday, July 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
Justice 101: School to Prison Pipeline
Tuesday, September 01, 2026
All Day
Date and details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.
In Person Scout Day
Saturday, November 14, 2026
All Day
Led by our engaging staff, all In-Person Scout Day participants will enjoy interactive discussions and activities. Members of Scouting America and Girl Scouts of the USA will also meet badge requirements. Details to be confirmed—please check back for updates.