Between Detention and Release

In the 19th century, offenders were incarcerated under conditions that were supposed, in theory, to facilitate their rehabilitation into society: isolation, spiritual counseling, work and strict discipline, to ponder their actions and mend their ways. This plan did not produce all the expected results: the Archambault Report, in 1938, found a recidivism rate of 70% among penitentiary inmates.

Starting in the 1960’s-1970’s, correctional authorities would rely not only on rehabilitation, but also on socialization of detainees. They took into account their fitness to live in society after their release.

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Detainees at Work

At the Kingston penitentiary, prisoners made shoes and furniture. In Trois-Rivières, they made toys, tables and a few violins. Female inmates did sewing work. Work was part of the correctional philosophy in the 19th century. But all prisons did not necessarily have the space required to set up workshops. Also, it was felt in the population that work done by detainees meant lost jobs.

At the end of the 20th century, vocational training and academic education programs were offered to inmates in federal penitentiaries. These programs give them the opportunity to acquire skills that will help them reintegrate into society.

Passing the Time

How can inmates pass the time inside the walls of a prison? In the 19th century, all conversations and games between detainees were prohibited. It was felt that inmates could be rehabilitated through strict discipline.

In the last half of the 20th century, correctional authorities considered the socialization skills of detainees in anticipation of their release. Prisoners, particularly in long-term federal detention facilities, could take part in recreational and educational activities such as sports, reading, literacy, vocational training, art, handicraft and community radio. This helps inmates express themselves, acquire skills and create positive relationships.

Freedom at Last

In 1959, the Canadian Government passed the Parole Act. Eligible detainees have access to furlough programs. Male and female inmates can attend workshops on anger management or addiction to overcome past traumas. Prison conditions are becoming more humane. New, smaller correctional facilities are more like life on the outside.

At the other extreme, dangerous criminals serving life sentences are housed in special facilities where modern electronic surveillance systems ensure maximum security. Between these two types of facilities, a wide range of arrangements and assistance programs designed to make prisons more humane are gradually replacing the repressive models of the 19th century, which lasted more than 150 years.