I attended the prison information sessions a few weeks ago in Summerland. I have a suggestion. Vote “No” for the construction of a provincial prison (inmates serving less than two years) and “Yes” to the construction of a federal penitentiary (inmates serving longer than a two-year sentence). The plan is to construct a maximum security institution, so let’s maximize its use.
Whether the facility is constructed in Penticton or Summerland area (may the best site be selected), I suggest that an hourly bus system be implemented between our two cities serving commuters to each city and continuing to the prison site, facilitating convenient access for employees, volunteers and visitors at the penitentiary.
When my husband and I moved to Belleville, Ont. in the ‘70s, we didn’t know that we were also moving into penitentiary territory. We were invited to lead a new life skills group, called Kairos, at Warkworth Penitentiary. We did this volunteer work for 10 years. During this time I took the one-year training in pastoral counseling in penitentiaries, visited inmates, and we invited inmates into our home with and without a guard. Because of this involvement I feel passionate about the following.
In Martin Luther King’s words, “I have a vision.” I envisage a healing-type prison being constructed in our area. It would contain a gymnasium where teamwork and fair play would be taught, a meditation area where silence would be honoured and all faiths expressed. With the help of counsellors, they’d build communication skills, learn the need for boundaries and to trust and be trustworthy. Through AA and NA they’d receive help to overcome destructive addictions.
Such a prison would contain classrooms where computer skills, science, art, and academic subjects would be taught. There would be appropriate areas where electronics, woodworking, theatre, music, first aid and crafts would be taught. They’d discover the satisfaction of pride in their achievements while discovering their skills. They’d learn organic gardening and nutrition as they farmed the food for the institution and care of animals. All work would be honoured; each inmate employed and learning to manage money wisely. It takes time to change attitudes and learn new skills, so the minimum time spent at this institution would be two years. Only inmates who want to change and grow would be considered. They would be recommended by staff where they are now serving time. “Yes, this person is serious about wanting help to change.” Such a prison would be an asset to our community.
Only qualified personnel would move here, for all staff, including administration and guards, would be screened regarding their passion to work in such a prison. Like-minded visitors from around the world would want to experience such a prison. We’ve all been wounded, some more than others. We would discover our growing compassion as we volunteer and visit. We would all enjoy knowing that we are increasing hope and decreasing suffering in our corner of our world.
Barbara Baxter
Penticton
