Female imprisonment is on the rise in the United States, surpassing global rates. Why is this? Consider the historical context of women in prison, and discover the unique challenges faced by women as they navigate life within correctional facilities primarily designed for men.
The Eighth Amendment: Cruel & Unusual Punishment (September 2023)
The Eighth Amendment states, “Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.” Has that standard been upheld by American criminal justice institutions of the past? Is it being upheld presently?
Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary
From solitary worship to the construction of the first ever prison synagogue, learn more about Judaism at Eastern State Penitentiary. How was the faith practiced by those living at Eastern State? What efforts are being taken to preserve these sacred spaces today?
The Engineering Achievements of Stephen De Ayala
Uncover the fascinating story of Steven De Ayala, who designed Eastern State’s eleventh cellblock while incarcerated at the penitentiary in the 1890s.
Unlocking History: Sports at Eastern State Penitentiary
From solitary exercise to team activities, learn more about the important role of sports at Eastern State Penitentiary including the penitentiary’s integrated baseball teams and legendary boxer turned Eastern State baseball player Charles “Jack” Blackburn.
See, Think, Wonder: Image Analysis Guide
This lesson introduces students to a structured approach for analyzing visual sources. Students will practice observational skills, evidence-based interpretation, and questioning techniques using the See, Think, Wonder strategy. This analytical framework supports critical thinking and visual literacy skills.
Girls in Detention Centers
This lesson addresses challenges facing girls in juvenile detention centers, with special attention to the disproportionate representation of girls of color (e.g., Latinx, African American). Students will examine how adverse childhood experiences and trauma can lead to involvement in the juvenile justice system. The lesson explores daily life in detention facilities, including separation from families,
Far From Home: Locations and Logistics of Women Facing Incarceration
This lesson explores the complex and far-reaching consequences of maternal incarceration. Students will examine how incarceration of mothers impacts their children through separation trauma, and how this effect is magnified for marginalized communities. The lesson addresses barriers incarcerated mothers face in reuniting with their children after release, including legal challenges, limited access to family support services, and societal stigma. Students will also investigate human rights issues related to maternal incarceration through research and discussion.
Defining Justice
This 60-minute activity requires students to actively interpret Lady Justice, a symbolic statue designed to encapsulate the American criminal justice system and then define Justice using a Frayer model.
Intro Activities for Discussions on Incarceration
This 75-minute activity explores the historical through lines between the 13th Amendment, incarceration, and prison labor including a case study analysis. Students will explore the ethics of incarceration, reflecting on rehabilitation, labor practices, prisoner wage and benefits, and workplace safety.