Third Annual Mandell-Boisclair Justice Camp Empowers Rhode Island Students
The Mandell-Boisclair Justice Camp returned to Roger Williams University School of Law this summer for its third year, giving 39 Rhode Island middle school students the opportunity to explore law, justice, and civic engagement.
Held over two weeklong sessions in July, the 2026 camp welcomed students entering grades six through nine. Eighteen campers had participated in previous years, allowing the program to expand with an advanced second-week curriculum focused more deeply on elections, voting rights, democracy, and civic participation.
About the Mandell-Boisclair Justice Camp
Created to make the legal system more accessible to young people, the Justice Camp connects students with attorneys, judges, elected officials, journalists, advocates, RWU Law faculty, and law students. Campers also take part in hands-on activities that show how law and government shape their communities.
During the first session of the 2026 camp, students visited the Rhode Island State House and state and federal courts, explored Indigenous land rights, and participated in advocacy and negligence exercises. Attorney Mark Mandell joined campers at the Station Fire Memorial Park, where he discussed the 2003 Station nightclub fire litigation and the role civil law can play in seeking accountability and change.
The second session gave returning campers a deeper look at democracy and public service. Students learned about voting and elections, discussed political information and misinformation, met candidates for public office, and concluded the week at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, where they participated in a simulated Senate debate.
For Mark Mandell and Yvette Boisclair, supporting the Justice Camp reflects a longstanding belief in helping young people understand both their rights and their ability to make a difference.
“Equal justice under the law is fundamentally important to us.” – Mark Mandell
Since welcoming 20 students in its inaugural year in 2024, the Mandell-Boisclair Justice Camp has continued to grow in both size and scope. We are proud to continue supporting Roger Williams University School of Law and a program that encourages Rhode Island middle schoolers to ask questions, understand their rights, engage with their communities, and recognize that their voices matter.
