COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: February 18, 2022

This content is a message to federal offenders and their families from Correctional Service Canada's (CSC's) Commissioner.

We have had a number of active cases in institutions across the country, but I am happy to report that the number of cases are decreasing as many people continue to recover. This is positive news.

Thank you for doing your part in getting vaccinated and continuing to wear your mask. Please remember to inform Health Services if you feel ill. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation, it is making a difference.

We learned earlier this week that 54 unmarked graves were found at two former residential school sites around Keeseekoose First Nation in Saskatchewan. Although a ground penetrating radar located the potential graves, the search was guided by oral history. These graves are painful reminders of the suffering inflicted on families and communities by the residential school system. I know that many generations of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people continue to feel these impacts. I would like to remind you that if you need assistance and support, the National Residential School Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day at 1-866-925-4419.

As we continue honouring Black History Month, it is important to reflect on how each of us can contribute to the development and growth of a diverse and inclusive society. As we celebrate our differences, also think about the barriers others may be facing.

Black History Month is an opportunity to foster these ongoing conversations and discussions to create safe and inclusive spaces.

Wednesday, February 23 is Pink Shirt Day, which was created to encourage people to stand up for anti-bullying. Bullying is intimidation often of someone seen as vulnerable or different. This is not acceptable behaviour. Every one of us is different and should be respected for their differences.

Pink Shirt Day is an opportunity to be conscious of how you treat each other, and make every effort to be respectful. Together, we can create a healthy environment that is built on a culture of tolerance and acceptance.

Please continue to look at ways you can better yourself. Each of you has a correctional plan with objectives and goals. I strongly encourage you to continue focusing on these. Education is another way to open doors and possibilities, both now and in the future. You can talk to your Parole Officer about additional ways you can achieve your goals.

Thank you for your cooperation and support of each other during the pandemic. It goes a long way to helping make the challenges that we all face easier.