Commissioner's update for correctional employees: May 21, 2024

Last week, Kirstan, Assistant Commissioner, Communications and Engagement, and I met with His Excellency, the Honourable Bob Rae, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York as well as other United Nations senior officials. As I mentioned in my last message, it was a good opportunity for me to highlight our organization’s important work, including our world-renowned correctional service, programs and employees. I also took the opportunity to discuss some of the safety and security issues we face in our institutions.

Wildfires in Western Canada

This past week, we watched with concern as wildfires began burning hectares in Western Canada. Residents were forced to evacuate towns and communities in Alberta and B.C. Although, the fires are not close to any of our institutions, many CSC staff members have family and friends who live in areas affected by them. I encourage you to keep your colleagues, who may be dealing with these challenges or have family affected, in your thoughts.  

Moose Hide Campaign Wrap Up

Monday marked the beginning of this year’s Indigenous Awareness Week, celebrated nationwide across the Public Service from May 20 to 24.

Each year, Indigenous Awareness Week offers an opportunity to deepen our understanding, appreciation, and recognition of Indigenous cultures and traditions. This week, I encourage everyone to learn more about, reflect on, and celebrate the significant contributions Indigenous Peoples have made, and continue to make, to both CSC and our country.

You can find additional important dates recognized by the Government of Canada at Canadian Heritage. You may also visit the Prime Minister’s page to read statements on these commemorative dates.

Commemorative diversity dates celebrated at CSC are on the Hub (accessible only on the Government of Canada network). You can visit the Hub for other upcoming special events and activities, as well.

New “Prisons Inside/Out” episode: Behind the Badge:
Part two (medium security)

I am happy to share that the fifth episode of our podcast, Prisons Inside/Out, is now available. You can listen to the full episode here:

• Episode 5: Behind the Badge part 2 (medium security)

I wanted to say thank you to all of the staff who have been taking time out of their busy schedules to participate in this project and those in the institutions behind the scenes who have been helping to coordinate these recordings. The feedback from the public, stakeholders and you so far has been positive, and this podcast has been important to showcase the hard work you do every day.

If you are interested in listening to part one of the miniseries, you can do that here:

• Episode 4: Behind the Badge: Part one (maximum security)

As always, we want to hear your feedback on the podcast series. Please send your comments to the Communications team at: 

• GEN-NHQ Podcasts-Balados

As I mentioned in my message last week, CSC plays an important leadership role on the international stage. It was apparent throughout my discussions with Mr. Rae, the respect that other countries have for the work we do here, see you as leaders and examples of excellence. I thank you for being part of an organization that is striving for positive ways to change lives and help people rehabilitate and reintegrate. We are setting the bar for others to follow in how to deliver corrections.