Do you believe that everyone deserves an education? Join students, teachers, lawyers, and formerly incarcerated advocates as we tell Philadelphia Colleges and Universities...Ban the box! Unlock Education!

Sign this petition and join us as we demand an end to higher-educational discrimination against those with criminal records!!

In the US, more than 70 Million people have a criminal record (more than the entire population of France!). These records hold people back and shackle people to their pasts. Whenever prospective students with criminal records apply to college in Philadelphia, they are confronted with confusing, exclusionary, and discriminatory questions about their criminal records. 60% of applicants who checked the box on their application (stating that they had a criminal record) DID NOT complete their application (see report linked below for more information). This deterrent further locks out potential students from opportunities that keep people free, and help our friends and family members achieve their dreams (not just dead end jobs). 

The best way to keep people free is to connect those in reentry with positive, life-affirming programs and opportunities. Education frees us all, join us as we ask Temple University, and every college in Philadelphia to #BanTheBox on their college application and unlock educational opportunities for all Philadelphians!

For more information read Community Legal Services' full report on these discriminatory practices HERE.

This campaign is being co-organized by the Reentry Think Tank, People's Paper Co-op and Community Legal Services.

#BantheBoxEDU #ReentryThinkTank #UnlockEducation