Serving a life sentence in prison, Peter Collins knew he had to come to terms with the consequences of his actions and so dedicated himself to working for positive social change. Since the late 1980s, when the official position of the Correctional Service of Canada was that intravenous drug use, tattooing, and sex were illegal—therefore not happening—until today when prisoners continue to be denied access to clean needles and syringes, Peter’s tireless efforts to defend the health and human rights of prisoners have often led to strained relationships with prison officials, undermining his efforts to get paroled. While in prison, Peter earned an honours diploma in Graphic and Commercial Fine Arts, as well as a certification as a Frontier College ESL tutor. He is an Alternatives to Violence Project facilitator and Peer Education Counsellor. Peter was instrumental in setting up a Peer Education Office in his prison and has advocated on behalf of fellow prisoners on issues ranging from health access to employment. He also wrote a book helping prisoners prepare for successful and safe release into the community. Regularly donating his time, expertise, and artwork to numerous charities and social justice initiatives, Peter’s dedication has contributed to improved health and safety in the prison system, and by extension, in the community at large.
