Tufts University is presenting a two-day symposium in conjunction with “Walls Turned Sideways: Artists Confront the Justice System,” currently on exhibit at the Tufts University Art Galleries. The event brings together nationally recognized artists, advocates and scholars to discuss issues of community impact, reentry, and the role of educational initiatives.

Today’s opening schedule includes keynote talks at 6 p.m. by Laurie Jo Reynolds and Shaun Leonardo. Reynolds is a policy advocate and artist who challenges the demonization, warehousing, and social exclusion of people in the criminal legal system. Leonardo’s multidisciplinary work negotiates societal expectations of manhood—namely definitions surrounding black and brown masculinities—along with its notions of achievement and collective identity and the experience of failure.

Please check the event web page for more details and the full schedule of programs for March 5 and 6. Most events take place in Alumnae Lounge in the Aidekman Arts Center.

This symposium is produced in partnership with the Tufts University Prison Initiative of Tisch College of Civic Life and is open to all. Please RSVP through the symposium’s Facebook event page/Eventbrite.