Justice 101 — Powered by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education, Justice 101 is a discussion series that dives 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.
Justice 101: Songs of Redemption: Stories, Music, and the Struggle for Justice
Thursday, December 18, 2025
6:00 - 8:00pm EST
Presented as part of The Aaron Reichlin Restorative Justice and Faith Conversations.
Join us for an evening of music, storytelling, and reflection as we celebrate the rededication of Eastern State’s historic synagogue. Once a space of worship within the penitentiary, the synagogue is now a lasting symbol of resilience, renewal, and justice. In the spirit of Hanukkah, we’ll honor the power of faith and community to bring light to even the darkest places.
The hour-long program will include remarks from Eastern State staff and special guests, a menorah lighting and blessing, story readings by local actors, and a musical performance by award-winning, local singer/songwriter Avi Wisnia. After the program concludes, we welcome you to stay for Hanukkah-inspired treats and to explore Eastern State’s synagogue and Jewish Life Exhibit.
This program launches a new series inspired by Eastern State’s rededicated synagogue—The Aaron Reichlin Restorative Justice and Faith Conversations—made possible by a generous grant from The Reichlin and Tuck Families.
Presented in partnership with The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History.
About the Panelists:
Avi Wisnia
Singer/Songwriter
Avi Wisnia is an award-winning singer/songwriter, finding inspiration in 1950’s west-coast jazz, acoustic American folk, Brazilian bossa nova, and contemporary piano pop. Based in Philadelphia, Avi tours in support of his newest studio album, “Catching Leaves,” performing in prestigious venues around the world – from the Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC to The Kennedy Center in DC to concert tours in Japan, Poland, and Brazil. The songwriter has appeared alongside artists such as Tony Orlando, Arturo Sandoval, The Roots, and Maroon 5, and his music has been featured on TV and in featured films. Avi Wisnia was most recently named Musician of the Year by Bucks Happening Magazine, and Outstanding Keyboard Player of the Year at the Delaware Valley Public Media Music Awards. His single “Sky Blue Sky” was recorded via satellite between Philadelphia and Brazil, winning recognition from the Philadelphia Songwriters Project and MidAtlantic Songwriters Competition. In addition to being a performing songwriter, he has given a TED Talk and performed with The Moth storytellers and organizes the Philly Songwriters Circle. He hosts, performs, and showcases notable songwriters from around the country at his monthly concert series “Philly Songwriters in the Round” at The Royal in Glenside PA. Avi Wisnia is also featured in the PBS Documentary “How Saba Kept Singing,” which chronicles the music he made with his grandfather, Cantor and Auschwitz Survivor David Wisnia.
We strive to make the penitentiary and our site, programs, and exhibits accessible to all visitors. Click here to learn more about accessibility and accommodations at ESPHS.
