Join us for a screening of the CBC documentary My Brother, Soleiman, followed by a conversation examining the intersections of mental health, Islamophobia, incarceration and institutional accountability.
My Brother, Soleiman tells the story of Soleiman Faqiri, a 30 year-old living with schizophrenia who died while in custody in an Ontario correctional facility. Following his brother's death, Yusuf Faqiri, began seeking answers and accountability—efforts that helped uncover the truth about the conditions of Soleiman’s confinement and death through a public inquest.
Following the screening, hear from Yusuf Faqiri, Dr. Christopher S. Taylor and Chris Cowie as they reflect on Soleiman’s story and the urgent issues it brings forward. The conversation will explore Islamophobia within the prison system, inadequate mental-health care in custody and the systemic conditions that continue to place vulnerable people at risk.
Participants are invited to listen, reflect and consider what accountability and meaningful change could look like—and what Soleiman’s story asks of our institutions and all of us. Following the conversation, participants can connect with the speakers over snacks and refreshments.
This event touches on difficult themes related to mental health, incarceration, death, Islamophobia and institutional harm. If you need support after attending, explore available campus and community resources.
Speakers:
Yusuf Faqiri, Leader of the Justice for Soli movement; Mental Health Advocate
A career civil servant with a background in policy and communications. Following the death of his brother, Soleiman, in an Ontario jail, he founded the Justice for Soli movement to advocate for people living with mental illness within Canada’s justice system. He has appeared as a mental-health advocate on major media outlets across Canada.
Dr. Christopher Stuart Taylor, Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism; Prof. History
Dr. Christopher S. Taylor is an assistant professor of History in the University of Waterloo’s School of Social, Political and Historical Research. He previously held several equity and anti-racism leadership roles at Waterloo and within the Ontario Public Service, including at Ontario’s Anti-Racism Directorate and Correctional Services College. He holds a PhD in History and Migration and Ethnic Relations from Western University and is a published author.
Chris Cowie, Instructor; Owner/Operator of Restorative Lens Consulting and Associate, Credence Inc.
Chris Cowie is the Executive Director of Community Justice Initiatives and a member of the Crime Prevention Council of Waterloo Region. With decades of experience in restorative justice, youth justice, penal reform and conflict resolution, he also teaches Peace and Conflict Studies and holds a master’s degree in leadership.