Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: June 9, 2025

Over the last week, you may have heard news about wildfires across the country. As a result of the fires, many communities and cities are experiencing high levels of air pollution from the smoke. I know this may be concerning to many of you. Our thoughts are with those who may have family and friends impacted by these events. Luckily, none of our institutions have been impacted. We will continue to monitor the situation closely. I want to remind you to please follow the local guidance related to outdoors activities.

I also want to take this time to thank those of you who are contributing to the Jasper Rebuild Project. During the 2024 wildfires, 350 structures were damaged in Jasper, Alberta. To offer support, Parks Canada, with the help of CORCAN, have created this project to help rebuild the homes that were destroyed in the fires. At this time, four houses have been built and sent to Jasper. Twenty more are currently being built.

I want to congratulate those who are working on this project. Your efforts are truly making a difference for the Jasper community. Thank you as well to all the participants in CORCAN’s Wildfire Training program. This program provides the skills and knowledge needed to volunteer and help fire fighters.

The month of June marks the beginning of Pride Season across Canada. From coast to coast to coast, we come together to celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion. This season is also about conversations and learning. Discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression has no place in Canada.

June is also Italian, Filipino and Portuguese Heritage Months. Let us celebrate how Filipino, Italian, and Portuguese Canadians continue to play a significant role in creating a vibrant, diverse, inclusive, and strong society.