Indigenous Cultural Liaison Services in Victoria and Nanaimo.
Accessing culture in custody.
Culturally grounded services for Indigenous Residents at Nanaimo and Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centres.
Making room for identity.
The John Howard Society of Victoria operates ICL services at both Nanaimo Correctional Centre and Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre. The ICL works alongside Elders who provide spiritual support, counselling, release planning, and connections to First Nations and Métis communities. Having an ICL inside a correctional centre means residents can access ceremony, Elder support, and connection to community without waiting until release.
The Program
Cultural support for self-identified Indigenous residents at NCC and VIRCC.
Indigenous Cultural Liaison Services
One-on-one cultural support and counselling.
Spiritual leadership and Elder access.
Traditional ceremonies (Talking Circles, Smudge, Pipe, Sweat).
Referrals to Indigenous service agencies.
Cultural activities and programming.
Release planning assistance.
Connection to First Nations, Métis communities, and families.
Advocacy for cultural safety and access.
Locations: Nanaimo Correctional Centre, Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre.
Eligibility
Indigenous Cultural Liaison Services are open to:
Residents at Nanaimo Correctional Centre (NCC) or Vancouver Island Regional Correctional Centre (VIRCC).
Individuals who self-identify as Indigenous.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Indigenous Cultural Liaison Services at NCC and VIRCC.
The ICL provides cultural support, spiritual counselling, and access to ceremonies and Elders. They also help with release planning and connect residents to Indigenous communities and services for support after release.
Yes. The service is based on the resident’s own goals for culture and connection.
Yes. Elders work directly with the ICL to provide spiritual support and enhance cultural programming.
Ceremonies include Talking Circles, Smudge, Pipe Ceremonies, and Sweat Ceremonies, depending on the facility and availability.
Yes. The ICL assists with developing release plans and connects residents with Indigenous communities, families, and service agencies to support reintegration.