Free. Live-streamed on Facebook and via Zoom webinar.

Join us for a panel discussion about the need to expand second chances in Pennsylvania. Hear about ongoing efforts to encourage our state’s leaders to support ending life without parole, creating medical and geriatric parole, and expanding clemency.

Celeste Trusty, Pennsylvania State Policy Director, FAMM - In her role with FAMM, Celeste Trusty works with policymakers, advocates, and incarcerated allies to advance criminal justice reform in Pennsylvania. Celeste is a long-time advocate for justice reform in Pennsylvania, and has a passion for helping justice-involved people and their loved ones.

John Fetterman, Lt. Governor of Pennsylvania, PA Board of Pardons Chairman - John Fetterman is the 34th and current Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania. He previously served as the Mayor of Braddock, Pennsylvania from 2005 to 2019.

Charles Brown, Criminal Justice Reform Advocate - Charles Brown served 36 years of a juvenile life without parole sentence prior to returning to his home community. Charles is dedicated to bringing about meaningful change through youth advocacy. He is involved with Bibleway Baptist Church’s Prison Ministry, known as Brothahood, visiting local facilities to mentor young people charges as adults, as he once was.

Kimberlee Johnson, D.Min., Eastern University Faculty; Director of Prison Education Program - Rev. Dr. Kimberlee A. Johnson (K-lee) is an educator, activist, justice advocate, and clergy leader. She serves on the faculty at Eastern University where she teaches Urban & Interdisciplinary Studies and in the Director of the Prison Education Program and the Center for Community Engagement. She’s a member of the Coalition for Juvenile Justice and volunteers with the Philadelphia Bail Fund and Decarcerate PA.

This event is part of Eastern State's ongoing Searchlight Series of events addressing issues in contemporary corrections. The Searchlight Series discussions take place the first Tuesday of every month, free and open to the public. No reservations required. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this discussion will take place virtually.