Another death, the second this week, has been reported involving an inmate at the Elgin Middlesex detention centre, the province’s Ministry of the Solicitor General has confirmed. The same detention centre that is known for overcrowding, poor supervision and violence. At least 18 people have died at the jail since 2009. Conversation and concern have been sparked in the community, as a lawyer is representing more 13,000 people in a $325 million class-action lawsuit against the province over conditions at EMDC. Now a Priest, Kevin George, is taking action and using a Good Friday service to “speak up, speak out, and demand a better way.”
“It’s easy to sort of put aside those people that have made mistakes and just focus on what’s going on in our own lives. 
Everybody in the detention centre is somebody’s kid.”
This is the first time George has taken a public stand on the condition of the EMDC. He feels that this is the beginning of something big, and that Londoners need to use their voice. He said this issue can’t not be forgotten. His focus in the event is to elevate conversation and set goals.
“Recommendations have been made to close that facility and build something that has more room, technology, better training, and has services for indigenous people.”
“You don’t need to be Christian”
If it wasn’t for the pandemic, George said he would have the front lawn of the EMDC lawn full on Good Friday, but he wants to be responsible. The event will be streamed live at 3 PM on St Aidan’s Anglican Church Facebook page. The event is not just for people who are involved in the church, or follow any religious beliefs. George just asked to respect the prayers and the service. He wants everyone who can, to participate, comment, and share.
“I want everyone to come and join to help me raise a voice. We can all do this together. I don’t need you to be a bible thumping Christian.”
Why Good Friday?
“Took this person who stood up and advocated for the weakest and most vulnerable.”
For Christians, Good Friday is a crucial day of the year because it is commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus and his death at Calvary. Ever since Jesus died and was raised, Christians have proclaimed the cross and resurrection of Jesus to be the turning point for all creation. It is the belief that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and was raised to life on the third day.
‘Really what the day represents is the day that the empire, the powers that be, took this person who stood up and advocated for the weakest and most vulnerable.”
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