For over two decades, Discovering Justice has been bringing students and communities together to examine the workings of the justice system, explore the ideals of justice, and prepare to engage as active citizens. We believe in the power of the next generation to sustain our democracy, and we value the belief that the justice system can and should work for everyone. Since 1998, Discovering Justice has worked in partnership with school systems, judges, nonprofits, community volunteers, and the legal community to examine the workings of the justice system, explore the ideals of justice, and help young people prepare to engage in our democracy. This approach is rooted in the founding vision of Boston’s John Joseph Moakley U.S. Courthouse, designed as a vibrant center for civic education and community activity. Over the past two decades, Discovering Justice has reached tens of thousands of students and community members through in-school civics curricula, courthouse events, and an after-school Mock Trial & Mock Appeal Program. Discovering Justice programs focus on the judicial branch, examining the workings of the court system and how it metes out justice. Discovering Justice programs work with Grades K-12 and the broader community, providing young people with age-appropriate frameworks to understand complex concepts like democracy and governance. This work helps ensure that by the time students reach high school and college, they have foundational civic skills and the ability to engage as active democratic participants.
