COVID-19 update for correctional employees: February 4, 2022

This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC''s Commissioner.

I am in the process of holding town halls with employees to discuss the results of the National Employment Equity Survey of Women Employees. So far, four town halls have taken place with three regions:

• Quebec
• Ontario
• Prairies, and
• National Headquarters

I continue to hear lots of good suggestions and comments. Thank you to those who have participated to date.

You may have seen the media coverage this past week of the convoy of transport trucks protesting in downtown Ottawa. Aspects of the protests have been disruptive to local residents and raised concerns for many as symbols and acts of hate and intolerance have manifested themselves. There is no place for this. We all look forward to the pandemic being over, including the restrictions. These are not normal times but we will get past this. In the meantime, it is important that we continue to be kind and respectful to one another, and promote inclusion and equality. 

Black History Month

February is Black History Month. It is not only a time to educate ourselves and reflect on the experiences of Black Canadians, but also a time to uplift Black Canadian voices in both the workplace and in our everyday lives. Black History Month was launched with statements from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and the honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion.

• Statement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
• Statement by the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion

On February 2, the Employment Equity and Diversity Committee (EEDC) organized a Black History webinar, featuring Robert Small, the artist behind the Black History Month posters since 1995. His Legacy Project posters highlight great Black Canadians and their stories to create more awareness about their achievements. Through his artwork, Robert hopes to establish a sense of empowerment in young Black minds, something he did not experience growing up.

At CSC, we know that inclusion and diversity make our workplace culture stronger. We aim to foster an environment where all employees feel valued. I encourage you to honour Black History Month by joining the virtual events and important conversations happening across the country. 

• Government of Canada’s Ask Me Anything: A Courageous Conversation on Black History Month
• Canada School of Public Service’s Anti‑Racism Learning Series
• CSC's EEDC Black History Month (internal resource only)

COVID-19 update

January 25 marked the two-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 case identified in Canada. Since then, we have adapted to the challenges and we are working hard to limit the spread of the virus and prevent people from getting seriously ill. It is a testament to our resilience.

We now have a number of tools to help monitor and protect our health, and a layered approach is the best way to keep yourself and those around you from catching and spreading the virus. These include vaccinations and wearing a mask. Thank you for your cooperation in making your health, and the health of others, a priority.

Psychology Month

Every February, we recognize and show appreciation for the important role psychologists play in our lives, both as researchers and practitioners. During the pandemic, psychologists have supported those at risk, through:

• the services they provide
• educating communities, and
• advocating for mental health services

This month, take the time to appreciate their everyday contributions to our workplace environment and their dedication to the development of informed practices and policies. It is important to acknowledge all the hard work CSC psychologists do in helping offenders and our communities flourish. 

Winter Olympics

The Winter Olympics opened in Beijing, China, today. The Olympics are an opportunity for athletes from countries around the world to come together and compete. Our 270 Olympians and Paralympians do us proud.

You can watch the games and support Team Canada athletes for:

• the Olympic Winter Games, February 4–20, and
• the Paralympic Winter Games, March 4–13, 2022

Security Awareness Week

At CSC, we all know about the importance of security. Next week, February 7 to 11, is Security Awareness Week and this year’s theme is Security: Everyday, Everywhere, which reminds us of our various security-related responsibilities. Our security responsibilities do not stop when we leave our respective workplaces, whether it be:

• at sites or institutions
• at the office, or
• at home

It is important to be mindful of physical and information security requirements, which are in place to help us effectively manage government security controls while we deliver programs and services, and protect government information and assets. 

Training sessions on workplace harassment and violence prevention

It has been over a year since the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations were implemented across the country. It is our duty to familiarize ourselves with the rights and responsibilities outlined in the regulations and CSC's policy.

• CSC's Policy on Harassment and Violence in the Workplace (internal resource only)

One of my priorities is to ensure that you have a safe and supportive workplace, and we all have a role to play to create and maintain a healthy environment. That is why it is important to complete CSC's mandatory training on workplace harassment and violence prevention. These training sessions are not only mandatory, but they are useful tools to assist in:

• identifying,
• addressing, and
• preventing

situations of harassment and violence in our workplace.

• Training courses on workplace harassment and violence prevention (internal resource only)

I truly believe that an organization is nothing without its people. Every single role each of us plays is critical to the functioning of our organization. You are essential in our success and in how we meet our mandate in service to Canadians.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication and commitment to upholding CSC's mission of actively encouraging and assisting offenders in becoming law-abiding citizens.