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Member Saturday: Beyond Small Talk: Navigating Conversations on Mass Incarceration and Criminal Justice Reform

October 19, 2019, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Member Saturday: Beyond Small Talk: Navigating Conversations on Mass Incarceration and Criminal Justice Reform

Members only. 

Join us on the third Saturday of every month for a new members-only program.

Experience Eastern State as only members can, through exclusive tours on the third Saturday of each month at 11:00 am. These unique, members-only events shed light on new historical findings, take you behind the scenes, and much more. Discover our collections, explore our site, illuminate history, and make unexpected connections.

October Member Saturday:
Beyond Small Talk: Navigating Conversations on Mass Incarceration and Criminal Justice Reform

Imagine the feeling. You sit down with a family member, friend, or colleague to have one of those “difficult” conversations. It’s awkward. Even the thought of it is uncomfortable. Still, it is important. Complex topics like mass incarceration and criminal justice reform are part of a growing national conversation. But when it comes to having these critical discussions with the people in our own communities, it can be hard to know when, where, or how to start.

At Eastern State, we make space for visitors, staff and members to have difficult conversations every day with the goal of finding common ground about the realities of the criminal justice system in America. Join Lauren Zalut, Director of Education and Tour Programs, and Reem Cotton, Supervisor, Education and Community Engagement, for coffee and conversation about Eastern State’s history, trends in contemporary corrections, and tools and tactics members can utilize to navigate difficult conversations about incarceration with their family, friends, and neighbors.

About Lauren: Lauren Zalut oversees guided tours, trains tour guides, and leads family and school programming at Eastern State Penitentiary. Using the site as a catalyst for conversation and action on social issues, Lauren has worked to incorporate dialogue, lived experience in prison, and content about mass incarceration into guided visitor experiences.

About Reem: Thomas Reem Cotton joined Eastern State in 2019 as Supervisor of Education and Community Engagement. In this role he is tasked with connecting and engaging with the general public and community partners on initiatives that advance Eastern State’s mission.

This event is free for all members. Reserve free tickets online at www.EasternState.org/MemberSaturday or call 215-236-5111 x224. Space is limited.

Not a member? Join today! Questions? Email us at [email protected].

2017 American Aliance of Museums Excellence in Exhibitions Overall Winner