Join us for a dialogue about the complex realities of incarceration and its far-reaching impact on society. How can we better understand our society that punishes members through incarceration? What is your relationship to the system of incarceration? What does it achieve? What does it degrade? Do you feel a sense of oppression but cannot pinpoint it? How are we each trapped in our own lives in various ways?

This dialogue requires no preparation to participate. It is a respectful space for sharing our thoughts as a community, creating connection, hearing about our shared human experience, and thinking critically about difficult issues that affect us all. Our skilled and experienced facilitator will guide the dialogue and create a space where we can share and learn from each other.

This event is limited to 12 in-person attendees. If you would like to attend virtually, please email askus@nwpl.ca

About the Facilitator/Author

Valerie M. Malla is a writer, facilitator of philosophical dialogue, and advocate for transformative dialogue through thoughtful enquiry. Her community work focuses on bridging philosophy, critical thought, and lived experiences, in order to reimagine community systems regarding true care, justice, and coherence.

Valerie’s book, Invisible: A Society of Prisons: An Opportunity for Dialogue was published in January 2025 by Poppy Publishing, and will be available for purchase at the event.