The Bordelais Correctional Facility (BCF) marked a significant milestone on Thursday, June 18, with the launch of Voices Beyond the Walls, a poetry anthology featuring the work of past and present residents of the institution.
The publication is the first book produced entirely from the creative writings of current and former residents of the facility and is said to stand as a powerful example of the role literature and the arts can play in rehabilitation and personal transformation.
The seed was planted for this achievement when the Programmes Department of the BCF approached the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) for support in enhancing LitFest, the facility’s literary showcase held annually. The initiative promotes literacy, rehabilitation, and positive self-expression among residents.
In response, the CDF engaged several of Saint Lucia’s distinguished literary figures, including Dawn French, Kendel Hippolyte, Mac Donald Dixon, and George Goddard, to mentor participants and help strengthen their writing skills. The programme proved highly successful, with some residents later participating in the CDF’s Walcott Expressions Competition, hosted online during Nobel Laureate Month in January 2026.
Inspired by the quality of the residents’ work and convinced of the rehabilitative value of reading and creative expression, well-known author Dawn French initiated and spearheaded efforts to publish a collection of their poetry. The launch of Voices Beyond the Walls represents the culmination of that collaborative effort.
The launch ceremony featured poetry performances and video presentations by residents and was attended by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, who commended the contributors on their achievement while encouraging them to remain focused on positive change.
“There are some people who believe in you. There are some people who believe in rehabilitation,” the Prime Minister stated. “There are some people who believe that even though you’re not perfect, nobody in this room is perfect, but you can strive to improve on where you are and what you did.”
Also in attendance were Minister responsible for Crime Prevention Jeremiah Norbert, Minister in the Ministry of Creative Industries, Culture and Heritage, John Paul Estephane, representatives of supporting agencies and sponsors, including LUCELEC, Rise St. Lucia Inc., and 758 Saint Lucia Books.
Although unable to attend, Director of Corrections Kerwin Albert provided a statement which underscored the significance of programmes that support rehabilitation and reintegration.
“Reintegration does not begin on the day of release,” Albert noted. “It begins with initiatives like this, that restore confidence, build skills and reconnect individuals to the community.”
Executive Director of the Cultural Development Foundation, Mrs. Raymona Henry-Wynne, said the Foundation was proud to support an initiative that aligns so closely with its mission.
“Our work is rooted in the belief that culture and creativity are essential to human development. They give people a sense of identity, dignity and possibility. What we see here today is exactly that in action – art being used as a tool for reflection, transformation and new beginnings.”
Special recognition was given to Dawn French for her instrumental role in bringing the publication to fruition. Copies of the anthology were presented to sponsors and supporting institutions, in appreciation of their contributions.
The Ministry of Education also donated two Chromebooks to support the continued development of the facility’s literary programme. Additional Chromebooks and laptops are expected to be acquired through proceeds from the sale of Voices Beyond the Walls, which is available for EC$60 per copy. Members of the public can purchase copies by contacting the Secretary of the Bordelais Correctional Facility at 286-7997.