January 18, 2012 2:59 PM
The idea of second chances is the core theme of Redemption Inc.
The show's premise reminded Canada's Correctional Investigator, Howard Sapers, about a rehabilitation program that operates out of Singapore - a Southeast Asian city-state known for its harsh justice system.
Sapers explained that in Singapore, the national government has for years sponsored an annual campaign for the Yellow Ribbon Project, which started in 2004.
"The theme of the campaign is escaping 'the second prison' of public opinion and stigma," Sapers said.
The Yellow Ribbon Project is meant to encourage society to support and welcome former inmates back into the community by extending job offers and getting the word out on rehabilitation initiatives.
A Yellow Ribbon Community Art Exhibition, for example, gives ex-offenders the opportunity to exhibit their art pieces to the public and even run community art workshops.
Sapers said the producers of Redemption Inc. seemed to be in sync with the Singapore model.
"What they have recognized is that once that offender finishes their sentence and returns to the community and tries to participate again, they have this huge stigma which is, in fact, like a virtual second prison that they have to get out of as well."
While Sapers was hesitant to talk about whether the rehabilitation campaign could be embraced or adapted locally, he said Canadians should realize that reformed criminals need support to rebuild their lives out of prison.
"I'm not sure if we can just transfer the program, but certainly we can learn from that mindset," he said.
Photo credit: AP Photo/Wong Maye-E
