The Ed McIsaac Human Rights in Corrections Award
In 2008, the Office of the Correctional Investigator, Canada's federal prison Ombudsman,
celebrated its 35th anniversary. Throughout the history of this
small agency, it worked to keep up with increasing demands for its Ombudsman services
and to fulfill its commitment to remain accessible and responsive to its clientele.
Its story is one of perseverence in sustaining the integrity of its core mandate
to address offender concerns, which at times has been difficult and unpopular. For
18 years, Mr. Ed McIsaac epitomized tenacity, determination and perseverence
through his work and leadership as the Executive Director of the Office of the Correctional
Investigator.
This award commemorates the work and dedication of Mr. Ed McIsaac and honours those
who demonstrate a similar lifelong commitment to improving corrections and protecting
the human rights of the incarcerated.
Mr. Ed McIsaac's actions continue to serve as an example to all those involved in
correctional practice. His relentless desire to uphold the human rights of
prisoners was the force behind numerous reforms promoting social justice in federal
Corrections. Mr. McIsaac began his career with the Office of the Correctional
Investigator in 1981, then became the Director of Investigation in 1986, and was
appointed as Executive Director in 1990 - a position he held until his retirement
in 2009. Throughout his career, he inspired his staff and rallied support
from various community organizations to defend against unfair treatment and to denounce
systemic injustice in federal Corrections. During his impressive career at
the OCI, he made countless recommendations which would improve correctional effectiveness,
protect the human rights of offenders and enhance public safety.
The award is presented annually to a person or an organization. Award recipients
are those whose social justice commitment and persistent efforts have contributed
significantly to the advancement of human rights and correctional practice in Canada.
Upon his retirement, Mr. McIsaac was presented with a sculpture entitled Medicine
Man. This work was created by Ms. Audrey Greyeyes, a Plains Cree artist from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation in Saskatchewan.
It symbolizes wisdom, clarity of thought and leadership. Award recipients
will receive a reproduction of the statue and a $250 cash donation will be presented
to a charity of their choice.
Choosing the Candidates
The National Selection Committee consists of:
- The Correctional Investigator, chairperson;
- One voluntary sector representative (to be selected by the NAACJ); and
- A representative of the Government of Canada (to be selected by the Ministry of
Public Safety).
The Committee seeks candidates who meet the following criteria:
- they are Canadian citizens;
- leadership in human rights and Corrections have played a significant role throughout
their career;
- their efforts have significantly improved the treatment of offenders in Canada and
consequently public safety;
- they have demonstrated leadership, creativity, cooperation and hard work in advancing
social justice in Corrections; and,
- they have created effective partnerships with the public, the voluntary sector,
local communities and/or governments to achieve their goals.
Nomination Procedures
A candidate for the Ed McIsaac Human Rights in Corrections Award may be sponsored
by an organization, or individuals - whom are unrelated to the candidate.
The application must include the following information:
- name, address and telephone number of the candidate;
- a Personal Release and Consent Form, signed by the candidate;
- names, addresses and telephone numbers of the sponsor(s); and,
- a detailed description of the candidate's accomplishments under each of the criteria,
including relevant documents (e.g., publications, letters of support, awards, press
clippings).
Candidates will not be considered posthumously.
This information must be submitted by June 1st
to:
Ed McIsaac Human Rights in Corrections Award Secretariat
Office of the Correctional Investigator
P.O. Box 3421
Station "D"
Ottawa ON K1P 6L4