Commentary: COVID-19 and Unrest at Donnacona Voices Inside and Out

Renford Farrier, a prisoner at Donnacona Maximum Security Institution in Quebec, describes how gas and rubber bullets were used to quell a protest by prisoners on April 20, 2020. He explains how the usual protocols of discussion and de-escalation were not followed before force was used on men who were posing no risk to the correctional officers. He questions why he was shot in the leg when he was complying with instructions and leaving his cell with his hands in the air telling them not to shoot. Discussed are the rising tensions behind bars due to the extended periods in cells, limited access to families, activities, programs and routine.