91��ܽ

Supported by the David and Cecilia Foundation, the School of Criminology recently hosted the screening of —the story of Soleiman Faqiri, a man living with schizophrenia who died in an Ontario correctional centre.

Following the film, attendees were part of an eye-opening discussion panel with Yusuf Faqiri, Soleiman’s brother and mental health advocate, and Teri DuTemple, a retired warden with more than 35 years of experience in BC Corrections. Organized by faculty members Amanda Butler and Dawn Rault, the event brought together students, faculty, staff, and community members for an insightful conversation on mental health and justice reform.

Drawing from decades of experience, DuTemple highlighted the growing challenges within correctional facilities and how mental health issues and the current drug crisis impact these centres. She stressed the importance of empathy and awareness in addressing these issues.

“We all need to care about what happens in jail because it can happen to any one of us, myself included, or someone we love,” she said. “We need to pull back the covers, we need to have a really good look. And we need to make sure that what's happening in both our provincial and our federal institutions is helping people to change so that they can come back to our communities as our neighbors, as contributing citizens, and doing the best they can.”

Closing the event, Yusuf Faqiri offered a thoughtful and inspiring reflection on Soleiman’s legacy and the urgent need for systemic change.

“Our system has work to do. We have a crisis and we have to respond, and all of you have the ability to change the system,” he said. “But don't lose hope. My late brother is no longer with us, but his tragic life has changed me, and I plan to do this work to help others. This is my family's humble contribution to the country that we love, even though the very system is responsible for his death, but we’ll use this to bring change. And I don't want any of you to lose hope.”

The School of Criminology extends its gratitude to the David and Cecilia Ting Foundation for their continued support in making these events possible, as well as to Yusuf Faqiri and Teri DuTemple for sharing their insights and experience with all attendees.