PEN Canada/Ken Filkow Prize

PEN Canada/Ken Filkow Prize

This $2,000 annual prize is awarded to an individual or group who has advanced freedom of expression in Canada. The right to freedom of opinion and expression is protected under Article 19 of The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and enshrined as a fundamental freedom in section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The prize is named in memory of Kenneth A. Filkow, Q.C., a distinguished Winnipeg lawyer, former chair of the Manitoba Human Rights Commission, and former member of PEN Canada’s Canadian Issues Committee. The prize is funded by Cynthia Wine and Philip Slayton.

Nominees may be anyone ­– authors, journalists, public servants, scientists, professors, business people, editors, publishers, organizations and concerned citizens – whose work meets the goals set out by the award.  In the case of individuals, special consideration will be given to those whose actions have demonstrated personal courage that may have involved putting personal interests on the line (career advancement, reputation, ties of family or friendship, etc.). In the case of organizations, special consideration will be given to those who have acted in a way that protected freedom of expression despite potential damage to their or their members’ financial or other interests.

PAST WINNERS:

Brandi Morin
Amber Bracken
Franke James
Raihan Abir
Desmond Cole
Justin Brake
Tim Bousquet
Amy Lai