Prisoners’ Justice Day 2025

Aug 10, 2025

On August 10, CMHA-WECB joins organizations across the country in recognizing Prisoners’ Justice Day — a day to honour individuals who have died in federal or provincial custody and to support the families and communities affected.

This day also calls attention to deep systemic issues inside correctional facilities. In Ontario, more than 61,000 people were admitted to provincial correctional facilities in 2022–23 and an estimated 41 per cent of them will experience at least one severe mental health issue while inside.

For people already struggling with mental health or substance use, conditions in custody often make things worse, especially in segregation where access to care is limited. Many don’t receive proper treatment until after arrest, if at all. Correctional health care continues to fall short of community standards, a concern echoed in countless Coroner’s Inquest recommendations.

Nearly 80 per cent of people in Ontario’s provincial jails are on remand, meaning they haven’t been convicted of a crime. They’re legally innocent, but still behind bars, often without access to health care, stable housing.

Through the Human Services and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC) Network,  CMHA-WECB collaborates with justice, health and social service sector partners to improve conditions for individuals with complex human service needs as they navigate the justice system and return to the community.

CMHA-WECB chairs local HSJCC committees. Individuals interested in learning more or joining are encouraged to email us.

We continue to advocate for reintegration supports, culturally appropriate services, effective discharge planning, access to housing and trauma-informed care for people who are disproportionately impacted by the justice system including Indigenous, Black and racialized communities and/or those living in poverty. Learn more about the work of Ontario’s HSJCC Network at hsjcc.on.ca