Incarceration not only affects those serving time but also deeply impacts their families and communities. For federally incarcerated individuals in Canada, maintaining family ties is crucial for rehabilitation and eventual reintegration into society. Research shows that strong family connections during incarceration can reduce recidivism rates and promote positive post-release outcomes. Despite this, the current systems in place for family contact within federal corrections facilities are inconsistent and inadequate.

Currently, federally incarcerated individuals face numerous barriers in maintaining regular and meaningful contact with their families. These barriers include limited and costly phone calls, lack of access to secure and private communication tools such as text tablets, limited access to video visits, and insufficient educational, cultural, spiritual, and support programming. Such limitations not only hinder rehabilitation but also strain family relationships, which are essential for emotional support and stability.

We, the families of incarcerated individuals, community members, and supporters of rehabilitation, call on the Government of Canada and the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) to implement national standards for family contact that are consistent, meaningful, and accessible to all inmates. These standards should include the provision of secure tablets that allow for real-time and frequent communication between inmates and their families through texting and video visits. Tablets should also provide access to education courses, life-skills and rehabilitation programming, mental health and addiction support services, and cultural and spiritual resources that respect and celebrate inmates’ backgrounds while promoting healing and growth.

Implementing these measures will not only benefit incarcerated individuals by providing them with a stronger support network, but it will also foster safer communities and promote public safety. By facilitating better family contact and expanding access to education and support programs, CSC can significantly enhance the rehabilitation process and reduce the likelihood of reoffending after release.

We urge the Government of Canada, the Minister of Public Safety, Members of Parliament, and the Commissioner of the Correctional Service of Canada to take immediate action in expanding and standardizing family contact in federal corrections. This must include secure texting, video visits, education courses, and support programs through accessible tablet services across federal institutions. Let us work together to build a more inclusive, rehabilitative, and safe criminal justice system that values family connections as a cornerstone of rehabilitation.

Please sign this petition to make meaningful family contact a reality for all federally incarcerated individuals in Canada.