Pennhurst: Shame, Tragedy, and Triumph In-Person / Online
Presented by
Jim Conroy, Ph.D. is the scientist who tracked Pennhurst residents after they left the institution; and
Jean Searle was in the process of being admitted to Pennhurst when the federal court system ordered admissions closed
This presentation will tell the story of the Pennhurst institution, one of the most notorious institutions for people with intellectual disabilities in American history. Right here in spring City since 1908, the neglect and abuse suffered by the people who lived and died was truly shameful. It resulted in a Supreme Court case that was heard no less than three times. The Pennhurst case became an inspiration that helped pass the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Long after the institution closed, the land was purchased and turned into a haunted house. What insults to dignity arose from this use of the property? And how has it evolved into a place of more respectful learning and memory?
This event is free and open to the public. The program will also be livestreamed on Zoom for those unable to attend in person. Registration is required.