COVID-19 update for correctional employees: February 24, 2023

Today marks one year since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This war has taken tens of thousands of lives, and destroyed entire cities. Millions of people have been displaced and are now refugees in countries around the world, including here in Canada. My heart goes out to all those affected, especially the many Canadians who have friends or family with ties to Ukraine. I encourage you to reach out and show your support to those in need.

Black History Month

In our last week of Black History Month, I would like to highlight the important role of Ethnocultural Advisory Committees at CSC. The advisory members offer diverse perspectives and often have firsthand experience in multiculturalism. They volunteer their time to support and improve the services we give to Black and other racialized individuals in our custody.

Read about some of the valuable contributions of Ethnocultural Advisory Committees:

• Celebrating 20 years of collaboration with many of Canada’s diverse communities

CSC visits Montana Department of Corrections

In January, three CSC employees travelled to the United States to meet with representatives of the Montana Department of Corrections. The department showed interest in our Integrated Correctional Program Model and Women Offender Correctional Programs. This is a great example of how we are sharing best practices with counterparts in other countries. 

Read more about the work we are doing with the Montana Department of Corrections on the Hub. (Internal resource only)

Regional communications manager nominated for Excellence Award

Congratulations to Michael Shrider, Ontario Regional communications manager, on his nomination for the Exceptional Leader Award of the Communications Awards of Excellence 2023. Michael works at our headquarters in Kingston. He leads the Ontario regional communications team and is also responsible for coordinating communications for the former maximum security Kingston Penitentiary. This includes organizing:

• film productions
• ceremonies, and
• events there where dignitaries are attending

The well-deserved nomination recognizes Michael’s leadership and professionalism in cultivating an inclusive work environment. 

Nominations for Pride Awards

I am pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the 2023 Public Service Pride Awards. These awards honour individuals, teams and organizations that have demonstrated leadership in promoting 2SLGBTQIA+ diversity, inclusion, and pride in the federal public service.

The award recipients will be announced on August 24, during the fifth annual Public Service Pride Week. The deadline to submit nominations is April 12, 2023. 

• Learn about the 2023 Public Service Pride Awards

There are many examples of excellence in our workplaces, both in our facilities and administrative offices. The high standards and level of values that I hear about daily are impressive. Thank you for your dedication and professionalism.