Pros and Cons Prison Arts Program

The Pros and Cons Prison Arts Program is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to creating music in prisons to support healing, rehabilitation, restorative justice, victim support, and education. As of 2023, it has been registered as a charity in Canada.

History and Founding

The program was founded by Hugh Christopher "Chris" Brown. Brown was inspired to initiate the program several years ago, following the closure of a prison. He aimed to provide professional mentorship and music-related opportunities to inmates, focusing on healing and rehabilitation.

Activities and Impact

Participants in the program are able to learn various musical skills including guitar, piano, percussion, songwriting, and music production. The program operates on a volunteer basis within correctional facilities under the oversight of the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). By providing instruments, recording equipment, and mentorship, the program fosters an environment where inmates can develop practical skills in music, engineering, and computer literacy.

The Pros and Cons Program also seeks to build better relationships among participants and promote personal growth through music. By fostering creativity and providing an outlet for expression, the program aims to humanize the incarcerated, ultimately contributing to a broader movement for prison reform.

Objectives

The core objectives of the Pros and Cons Prison Arts Program include:

• Rehabilitation: To assist in the rehabilitation of prisoners through music and related activities.
• Restorative Justice: To support restorative justice by promoting healing and understanding among inmates, victims, and the wider community.
• Education: To provide educational opportunities in music and related fields, enhancing the skills and knowledge of participants.
• Community Engagement: To challenge stereotypes and foster positive interactions between inmates and the community through music performances and events.

Registration and Support

The program is registered under the Business Registration Number 728936675RR0001. It relies on donations to support its mission, using funds to purchase equipment and hire mentors for teaching and mentoring roles. By supporting the program, contributors help empower incarcerated individuals with tools for personal and social transformation.