Democracy for All Week: Freedom of Expression
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 to Sunday, September 21, 2025
This Constitution Day—and all week long—we celebrate and reflect on the role of the First Amendment in securing freedom and liberty for all. But does that include people who are incarcerated? Together, we’ll examine how freedom of expression is limited and fought for in the American criminal justice system and the role of natural rights in an incarcerated facility. What limits are in place in different states? Are they fair and just? How have journalism and art played powerful roles in preserving human dignity? Join us for a full week of special programming exploring prison journalism, art, and free expression for those who are not free.
Events in this Series
Mini Tour: Making Headlines
Wednesday, September 17 - Sunday, September 21, 2025
10:35am - 4:35pm
Daily. 35 minutes past each hour. Explore the powerful intersection of journalism, incarceration, and censorship—past and present. Through discussion, storytelling, and exploration of archival materials, this program examines the role of imprisoned writers and the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in prisons and jails. Reflect on who gets to speak, what stories are told, and how resistance takes shape through words.
Fireside Chat: Justice & Journalism
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
11:00am - 11:45am
In Person: Included with admission. Online: Free. Advance registration required. Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Jy’Aire Smith-Pennick, a writer, justice advocate, and truth-teller. In this conversation, Jy’Aire reflects on the power of journalism as a tool for accountability and healing.
Drop-In Writing and Art-Making Activities
Wednesday, September 17 - Sunday, September 21, 2025
11:00am - 4:30pm
Daily. Available between 11:00 am and 4:30 pm. Inspired by prison newspapers and the power of self-expression, these hands-on activities invite you to explore, reflect, and create. All materials provided—just bring your imagination!
Mini Tour: Making Headlines
Wednesday, September 17 - Sunday, September 21, 2025
Daily. 35 minutes past each hour. Explore the powerful intersection of journalism, incarceration, and censorship—past and present. Through discussion, storytelling, and exploration of archival materials, this program examines the role of imprisoned writers and the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression in prisons and jails. Reflect on who gets to speak, what stories are told, and how resistance takes shape through words.
Fireside Chat: Justice & Journalism
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
In Person: Included with admission. Online: Free. Advance registration required. Join us for an intimate fireside chat with Jy’Aire Smith-Pennick, a writer, justice advocate, and truth-teller. In this conversation, Jy’Aire reflects on the power of journalism as a tool for accountability and healing.
Drop-In Writing and Art-Making Activities
Wednesday, September 17 - Sunday, September 21, 2025
Daily. Available between 11:00 am and 4:30 pm. Inspired by prison newspapers and the power of self-expression, these hands-on activities invite you to explore, reflect, and create. All materials provided—just bring your imagination!