COVID-19 update for correctional employees: May 27 2022

My thoughts are with those who have been affected by the storm that struck cities in:

• Ontario
• Quebec, and
• New Brunswick

on Saturday, May 21. There were some deaths reported, many lost (and continue to be without) power, and have experienced damage to their property. A special thanks to those who have helped their communities and neighbours by opening up their homes and lending a hand to the clean up efforts. 

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

Sunday, May 29, is International Day of United Nations (UN) Peacekeepers. Over the past 15 years, 90 correctional personnel from CSC have participated in UN peacekeeping missions, providing their expertise in assisting countries with their correctional services. We recognize the incredible service and sacrifice correctional personnel make working in missions. Take a moment to pay tribute to the peacekeepers whose efforts help create the conditions for lasting peace to many countries affected by conflict. It is also a day to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.  

National Accessibility Week

At CSC, we recognize the contributions our employees with disabilities make and invite all staff to celebrate National Accessibility Week, May 29 to June 4. This year’s theme is ‘Inclusive from the Start.’ It is a time to celebrate the valuable contributions and leadership of Canadians with disabilities, and to reflect on our ongoing efforts to become a better, more accessible, and disability-inclusive society. The advocacy of disability stakeholders and organizations has been critical to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities. CSC is building on this legacy to improve accessibility and promote inclusion for all employees. 

Everyone has a role to play in creating a public service that is:

• diverse
• inclusive, and
• accessible

I encourage you to join the Canada School of Public Service event on June 1 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (ET) that showcases authentic stories and insights of people with lived experiences on how to build a more accessible public service, and in turn a more accessible Canada.

National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize the: 

• rich history,
• heritage,
• resilience, and
• diversity 

of the Indigenous communities across Canada.

At CSC, we recognize not only the historic contributions of Indigenous peoples to the development of Canada, but also the strength of present-day Indigenous communities. Our organization has the highest proportion of self-declared Indigenous employees of any federal department. CSC also contracts approximately 140 Elders who represent rural and urban Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast. Thank you to the staff who work closely with Indigenous community members and organizations to guide and support Indigenous offenders along their healing paths to safe and successful reintegration. This month, take the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the culture and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

• National Indigenous History Month

Filipino, Italian and Portuguese Heritage Months

We are fortunate in Canada to be a nation assembled by people from many countries. Throughout the year, we recognize the many cultures that make up our country.

June is Filipino, Italian, and Portuguese Heritage Months, which is an opportunity to recognize and showcase the rich cultures and histories of people of:

• Filipino
• Italian, and
• Portuguese

descent. These communities have contributed to all areas of society, enriching it with their:

• languages
• food
• traditions, and
• culture

Let us celebrate how Filipino, Italian, and Portuguese Canadians continue to play a significant role in creating a society that is:

• vibrant
• diverse
• inclusive, and
• strong 

Emerson Douyon Award Nominations

The nomination period for the annual Emerson Douyon Multiculturalism Award is now open. This award is presented to a CSC employee or community partner who has significantly contributed to the promotion of multiculturalism and diversity within CSC or the community. Employees, individuals on contract, summer students, and members of the public (i.e. a volunteer) are eligible. If you know someone who deserves to be recognized for their efforts, I encourage you to nominate them for this important award. 

Pride Season 2022

I am pleased to note that Pride Season begins June 1 and runs until September. Parades and events are planned across the country to celebrate the:

• resilience
• spirit, and
• talent

of LGBTQ2+ people. Pride Season highlights the lived experiences of LGBTQ2 folks, and the progress society, the Public Service, and CSC has made. I invite you to express your solidarity and celebrate the resilience and spirit of those who have fought for freedom and equality by joining in and supporting the various events throughout the summer.  

• Calendar of Pride events happening this summer. 

New menu

On Monday, May 30, CSC’s 2022 version of the national menu will be launched. The menu has been updated and includes a variety of new items. The national menu ensures all offenders are provided with quality food to support their wellbeing throughout their incarceration. The national menu meets Canada’s Food Guide recommendations and nutritional requirements, and is supported by a registered dietitian. Thank you to all the food services staff and all staff who worked on this new national menu.

Thank you for your ongoing hard work and dedication. It does not go unnoticed and is much appreciated.