Justice 101: Voices Beyond the Walls — Justice, Reentry, and Civic Power

In recognition of National Voter Registration Day, the Philadelphia City Commissioners' Office and the Eastern State Center for Justice Education are partnering to present Voices Beyond the Walls — Justice, Reentry, and Civic Power.

This panel and networking event explores a fundamental American right: voting with or without a criminal record. The discussion will provide historical context, practical information, and lived experience to help attendees better understand voting rights in Pennsylvania, address common misconceptions, and explore how civic engagement can strengthen communities and empower eligible justice-involved individuals—from incarceration through reentry and beyond.

Opening remarks by Kerry Sautner, Ed.D. (President and CEO, Eastern State). Moderated by Vanessa Caracoza (Deputy Executive Director, Philadelphia City Commissioners' Office). Panelists include Omar Sabir (Chairman, Philadelphia City Commissioners’ Office), William “Bill” Hart (Associate Director, Temple University—Office of Community Affairs and Engagement), Benjamin D. Geffen, J.D. (Senior Attorney, Public Interest Law Center), Assata Thomas (Executive Director, Division of Reentry—City of Philadelphia’s Office of Public Safety), and others to be announced.