The Aaron Reichlin Restorative Justice and Faith Conversations
Wednesday, December 09, 2026 to Wednesday, December 09, 2026
The Aaron Reichlin Restorative Justice and Faith Conversations bring together scholarship, performance, and dialogue to examine how faith traditions foster community, sustain people through and after incarceration, and inform conversations about reentry and justice reform. Rooted in the history of Eastern State Penitentiary’s synagogue—the first-ever dedicated synagogue inside an American prison—this series activates Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site as a space for engagement and community-building. This series is made possible in part by a generous grant from The Reichlin and Tuck Families.
Upcoming Events in this Series
Justice 101: Faith, Sanctuary, and Community
Wednesday, December 09, 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Free event. Advance registration required. In the spirit of Hanukkah, join us for an evening of conversation, music, camaraderie, and to light the menorah. Together, we’ll celebrate the storied history and enduring spirit of the Jewish community at Eastern State Penitentiary—both inside the walls and as a bridge to outside life across the city of Philadelphia. We’ll also honor the spiritual bonds that bring incarcerated people together across religious traditions, and reflect on the continued importance of faith in prisons today.
Speakers and performers include Rabbi David Ackerman (Congregation Beth Am Israel) and Avi Wisnia (singer/songwriter).
Justice 101: Faith, Sanctuary, and Community
Wednesday, December 09, 2026
Free event. Advance registration required. In the spirit of Hanukkah, join us for an evening of conversation, music, camaraderie, and to light the menorah. Together, we’ll celebrate the storied history and enduring spirit of the Jewish community at Eastern State Penitentiary—both inside the walls and as a bridge to outside life across the city of Philadelphia. We’ll also honor the spiritual bonds that bring incarcerated people together across religious traditions, and reflect on the continued importance of faith in prisons today.
Speakers and performers include Rabbi David Ackerman (Congregation Beth Am Israel) and Avi Wisnia (singer/songwriter).
