Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: February 3, 2025

The beginning of February marks the start of Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements, heritage and identity of Black communities in Canada.

I encourage you to take time this week and this month to learn and reflect on the experiences of Black Canadians.

Many of our institutions have Afri-centric interventions and services available to you that can help build a sense of community, belonging and enhance your rehabilitation experience and networks. Please speak with your case management team to learn more. You can also ask the ethnocultural advisory committees, Ethnocultural Site Coordinators, and Ethnocultural Representatives in place across the country that work to improve the services and supports available to you.

The month of February is also Psychology Month. I would like to remind you that psychologists play an important role in CSC’s health care teams.

They offer and support crucial mental health services.

If you feel you need the support of a psychologist, please don’t hesitate to reach out to health services. Mental health professionals are available at all institutions to respond to your mental health needs. I strongly encourage you to access these resources wherever needed. Please remember, you are not alone.

 

“Black history is not just for Black people - Black history is Canadian history.” - Jean Augustine