Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: March 4, 2024
Last week, renowned author Lawrence Hill was at Bath Institution in Ontario to highlight Black History Month. He met with 40 individuals who, in January, had all read one of his books then watched the CBC mini-series as a group.
The event was a collaboration between the Black Inmates & Friends Association, Bath’s book club members, volunteers from Book Clubs for Inmates, Bath Institution’s librarian, and Education and Programs staff.
Lawrence Hill, third from left, with participants at
Bath Institution.
Lawrence Hill was engaging, passionate, and inspiring. He spoke candidly about his personal experiences, and the challenges of writing novels. He led an in-depth discussion about the book and signed books for everyone.
Many spoke of the impact his novel had on them. One individual remarked that he realized that some words from the time of slavery were commonplace in his home growing up. He said learning this helped him see things differently. It also provided him with a different perspective of his own history. The affect Lawrence Hill’s book had on the audience made it a very moving event.
Reading is an incredible way to expand your knowledge on an endless number of topics and use your time constructively. The book clubs in the institutions are a positive, social opportunity to exchange ideas and share opinions about what you are reading. I encourage you to join the book club at your institution!
March 8 is International Women’s Day. It celebrates the achievements of women worldwide. This year’s theme is “Invest in women: Accelerate progress.” It is a reminder that women of all ages and from all walks of life have a place in every part of Canadian society. We all have a role to play in building healthier and more inclusive communities where everyone can reach their full potential.
Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder. — Rumi
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