Commissioner's update for correctional employees: February 23, 2026
This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC's Commissioner.
Our mission: The Correctional Service of Canada, as part of the criminal justice system and respecting the rule of law, contributes to public safety by actively encouraging and assisting offenders to become law-abiding citizens, while exercising reasonable, safe, secure and humane control.
Our core values: Respect, fairness, professionalism, inclusiveness, and accountability.
Wednesday, February 25, is Pink Shirt Day. This day is dedicated to the fight against bullying.
On this day, and every day, let us be conscious of how we treat one another. Together, we can create a healthy work environment free of violence, harassment, discrimination, and bullying.
I look forward to proudly wearing pink on Wednesday and encourage everyone who does not wear a uniform to do the same. For uniformed staff, you can show your support by wearing pink outside of working hours.
After the Badge: John Mentis
John Mentis began his career at the now-closed Saint-Vincent-de-Paul Penitentiary in 1968. John went on to work for 30 years in corrections between the federal and provincial services, making history along the way. John was the first Black male guard to graduate training at Saint-Vincent-de-Paul.
“I thought there was somebody before me. But it felt good, you know. I had to go through with the job, so it just gave me more push to do it,” he recalls.
Read the latest edition of Let’s Talk to learn more about John’s remarkable life and career:
You can also watch the video here:
Work That Matters: Vinit
As I previously mentioned, our national communications team has produced a new series called "Work That Matters." This week, I wanted to highlight Vinit, a Building Service Technician at Bowden Institution, in Alberta. Every day, he helps keep the institution running safely and efficiently by maintaining critical systems like boilers, air compressors, and ventilation across multiple buildings.
I encourage you to watch this video to learn more from Vinit about the important and hard work he does.
I also want to say a big thank you to Vinit and all of our employees who ensure the safe operation of our institutions every day.
35th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War
February 28, 2026, marks the 35th anniversary of the end of the Gulf War. Following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, Canadian Armed Forces members deployed to the region and joined the largest international coalition of military forces since the Second World War.
I encourage everyone to take the time to honour those who served and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. To learn more about this milestone anniversary, please visit:
As you may know, a number of CSC employees have served in the armed forces over the years. We take pride in working alongside veterans who continue to serve within our organization.
Thanks to all of you for your dedication each and every day.
Every job is a self-portrait of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence.