What is the rate of Indigenous overrepresentation in Saskatchewan's jails?

In 2023/24, Indigenous people in Saskatchewan were incarcerated at a rate 19.4 times higher than non-Indigenous people.

What is Saskatchewan doing to address Indigenous overrepresentation in custody?

Saskatchewan is launching a pilot Indigenous provincial court in Saskatoon this summer to provide a culturally relevant justice system.

Home / Crime and Justice / Saskatchewan Leads Canada in Indigenous Overrepresentation in Jails

Saskatchewan Leads Canada in Indigenous Overrepresentation in Jails

Q: What causes Indigenous overrepresentation in the justice system?

Overrepresentation is linked to the intergenerational effects of colonialism and residential schools, leading to systemic issues.

29 Jan

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Summary

Indigenous people are incarcerated 19.4 times higher than non-Indigenous people.
Saskatchewan launches a pilot Indigenous provincial court this summer.
Overrepresentation is linked to intergenerational effects of colonialism.

Saskatchewan continues to lead Canada in the overrepresentation of Indigenous people within its correctional facilities. Recent data from 2023/24 reveals that Indigenous individuals are incarcerated at a rate 19.4 times higher than their non-Indigenous counterparts, an increase from previous years. This disparity is recognized as a significant systemic issue.

In response, the provincial government is set to launch a pilot Indigenous provincial court in Saskatoon this summer. This initiative is a direct effort to address the deep-rooted causes of overrepresentation, which are acknowledged to stem from the intergenerational effects of colonialism and residential schools.

The Indigenous court will follow a co-design process, partnering with Indigenous communities to create a justice system that is culturally relevant, restorative, and holistic. This approach aims to provide support and healing plans, helping individuals reintegrate into the community and reconnect with their heritage, rather than solely focusing on punitive measures.