Pisiksik Justice Department (PJD)

Legal Disclaimer: We cannot provide legal advice and/or court support. Please refer to our ‘For Clients’ section for more information.

PJD provides support for Inuit clients in contact with the criminal justice system, those at high risk of entering the system, or have previously had contact with the system. Culturally relevant and appropriate approaches are observed, utilizing the 8 guiding principles of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) to reduce the number of Inuit clients from entering or re-entering the system. The ultimate goal is resiliency, healing and wellness to ensure Inuit maintain healthy and productive lives.

PJD is funded by different ministries within the Ontario government.

The program is multifaceted when it comes to the way it tackles criminal justice system issues. It is an amalgamation between direct service delivery, diversion, client-tailored services and programs, and advocacy towards policy changes.

The program is currently carried out by four TI staff that make up the PJD team.

The team is composed of:

Manager
Gladue Writers (2)
Restorative Justice Liaison
Restorative Justice Caseworker

**Pisiksik meaning – Inuit word for a bow and arrow. These tools were a vital part of Inuit hunting practices and skills for survival. This quote describes the premise well and what we are working towards:

“An arrow can only be shot by pulling backward. When life is dragging you back with difficulties, it means it’s going to launch you into something great. So just focus, and keep aiming.”

– unknown