This section is meant for those working in, or adjacent to, the criminal legal system.
A curated collection of articles and toolkits written by and for professionals in the legal, health, education and social services fields that explore how to apply abolition, anti-carceral practises, and disability justice in to their professional work environments. No resource is perfect for everyone, so take what you think will work and leave what won't. Did you come across a great resource in your searches? Send us any resources you think belong here via our contact form!
This section is for friends, family, chosen family and community working to support those who've been arrested, are navigating court, or in prison.
The criminal legal system in so-called canada is a colonial tool that is racist, ableist, and harms more people than it effectively helps. It does not afford justice to either those accused, those harmed, and there is evidence that arrest, court and prison has no impact on deterring crime.
If you're present during the arrest of someone you know, care about, or want to support here are a few ways you can provide essential support in that moment.
If you want to support someone as they are put through the criminal legal system, attending their court dates is a good option. ​ Especially useful to attend are bail hearings. Being arrested unexpectedly and held in the police station can make someone feel very scared and isolated. Seeing friendly faces in the body of the court during a bail proceeding can be very relieving! ​ First appearances and set dates are also important. If your person has to attend court in person it can be a bit confusing or intimidating if they haven't been before. Be prepared to help someone navigate the courthouse - or be the person willing to ask court staff a question so your person doesn't need to interact with court constables. Talk through and help them find in-court resources, such as the accessibility or mental health services office if needed. Court appearances tend to take up a lot of the day if someone don't have a lawyer, so it's nice to spend that time in supportive company instead of facing it all alone. If your person only has to attend zoom court - this is still a good opportunity to show them support in a more casual setting! ​ Consider bringing your person's favourite comfort snack as a reassuring surprise - or offer to make them lunch/dinner or take them out afterwards. Quiet ways to pass the time are also allowed - quiet fidget toys, journals and books can all help both of you pass the time. Phones are not allowed to be used in courtrooms unless permission is given by the court.- usually for occupational purposes (journalist) or accessibility. ​ ​
Prisons are abhorent places to be, where abuse, neglect, disease, mental health issues (new or old), and injury are common and rampant. Supporting someone through their experience - with advoacy or event just being an ear - can sometimes make the difference between life and death. ​ There are many ways to support your person - from financial support, to accessibility and health advocacy, to helping resource them, to being an ear. Check in with them about what type of support they might like - and never underestimate the impact of consistently showing up for someone you care about!
Resources for families and those supporting people who are navigating the legal system: support groups, children's books, etc.
This guide - compiled by DJNO's Prison Project - is for the Hamilton, ON and surrounding area and offers in-depth information on foodbanks, meal programs, shelters, ID clinics, harm reduction & safe injection sites, clothing programs, medical care, transportation, mental health and legal support.
Zines, guides, toolkits, and writings by people for people navigating the legal system
A curated collection of general abolitionist resources & articles. No resource is perfect for everyone - take what you think will work and leave what won't - and drop us any resources you think belong here! ​ For specific resources on abolitionist practises within professions, see our toolkit for those working within or adjacent to the criminal legal system.
Definitions for words that may be new to you
Our printable toolkit is free, a plain-language resource meant for people currently in jail or prison who can't access this website. It contains information on the legal process, legal options, as well as resources for prisoners and their support systems.