COVID-19 update for correctional employees: January 6, 2023

A new year has begun and I hope it finds you well, rested and looking forward to 2023. When I reflect on how far we have come in the last year, I am proud of what we have achieved together. Thank you, once again, to all of you who worked over the holidays. Your service is important and appreciated.

A reminder that the long, dark and cold days of winter are not easy. You, your colleagues, or people in your support networks may find it difficult. Remember to check in on each other’s well-being, including your own, and reach out for additional support if you need it.

COVID-19 update

COVID-19 and influenza are still circulating in our communities. The majority of you have been vaccinated, which is one of the best defences against severe infection. We encourage you to:

• stay up to date with your vaccines
• wear a mask indoors when you cannot distance from others, and
• stay home if you are sick

Thank you for following the infection prevention and control measures into 2023 for a healthier year for all. 

National Ribbon Skirt Day 

The Government of Canada has designated January 4 as National Ribbon Skirt Day in honour of Indigenous women and girls. The day is an opportunity to raise awareness of and celebrate Indigenous:

• culture
• traditions
• histories, and
• contributions

to our country. 

For centuries, ribbon skirts have been worn in ceremonies or at special events. They are an important part of Indigenous women’s identity and heritage, representing a person’s unique diversity and strength. They are worn with pride, including at marches across the country in honour of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.

The impetus for Ribbon Skirt Day arose after 11-year-old Isabella Kulak was shamed for wearing her ribbon skirt to school in 2020. The incident sparked support on Facebook from thousands of people around the world and inspired Manitoba Senator, Mary Jane McCallum, and Jenica Atwin, Member of Parliament for Fredericton, to advocate for this day.

Canada’s first National Ribbon Skirt Day is an important reminder of the need to combat discrimination and racism, and the importance of building an inclusive society that:

• accepts
• welcomes, and
• embraces

diversity.

Indigenous employees wishing to speak with someone, may call the Hope for Wellness Help Line. Its experienced and culturally competent Help Line counsellors are available any time night or day, seven days a week. You can call the toll-free Help Line at:

• 1-855-242-3310

or use its online

• hope for wellness

chat. 

Little Christmas

For many Orthodox Christians, January 6 and 7 is Little Christmas. Today, January 6th, is Christmas Eve. I wish those who are celebrating a very happy Little Christmas.

Tamil Heritage Month

January is Tamil Heritage Month in Canada and an opportunity to honour the many contributions Tamil Canadians make to all facets of our society, such as:

• politics
• health
• sports
• medicine, and
• business

Canada is home to one of the largest populations of Tamils living outside Sri Lanka, and this month we honour the many contributions they have made. I encourage you to learn more about their history and culture and how they help shape your community.

I am confident that 2023 will be another successful year. I recognize the challenges inherent in the nature of the work we do and want to thank you in advance for the:

• hard work
• commitment, and
• tireless efforts

that I know you will devote to your role this year. Thank you for everything you do on a daily basis to rehabilitate and reintegrate individuals into the community.