COVID-19 update for offenders and their families: 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, including 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.

As Black History Month nears its end, I hope you have taken some time in recent weeks to listen to people’s stories and learn about the realities they face. Listening to others can lead to:

• understanding
• empathy, and
• respect

These values can help you make positive connections today, and when you return to the community. Black History Month is a good opportunity to highlight the successes of Black Canadians. It is important to continue the conversation and promote people’s stories year round.

Did you know that volunteers from diverse ethnocultural backgrounds can help you identify your needs, and the services available to you? Their connections can help you build positive networks that can assist you in your reintegration. I encourage you reach out to your case management team. They can help you connect with an Ethnocultural Advisory Committee member.

Finally, CSC is working hard to ensure that both our work and living environments are:

• safe
• respectful, and
• inclusive

Respect plays an essential role in the way we treat others and the way we want to be treated.  When we stop and listen to one another, we find there is always common ground.  Respect for others builds feelings of:

• trust
• safety, and
• wellbeing