Abstract:

The Canadian carceral system is purposefully designed to disconnect and isolate people.  Ongoing colonialism in Canada at the intersection of carceral, social service, health and child welfare systems has resulted in the disproportionate and unjust representation of Indigenous Peoples across each stage of the penal process. Given the ongoing silencing of people who are or have been incarcerated, Participatory Action Research led by Peers with living experience of the carceral state and grounded in the wisdom of Indigenous Elders is urgently needed.