The Prize

The Joe Ushie Poetry Prize celebrates the transformative power of poetry as a vehicle for expression, connection and change, in honour of the legacy of Professor Joe Ushie – a longtime champion of artistic integrity and social justice.

The Prize honors emerging and established poets for artistic excellence and social commitment in their art. Our mission is to cultivate a vibrant community of poets and provide a platform for diverse voices.

We also strive to ignite passion for poetic expression and nurture the next generation of literary talent.

In line with this raison d’etre, the Joe Ushie Poetry Prize confers a $500 (USD) cash award on the author of the best submitted poem in a given year.

It is our hope that this Prize will provide a platform for visibility for previously hidden talent and create an avenue for intergenerational creative exchange.  

Carefully read the rules and submission guidelines of the prize on www.joeushiepoetryprize.com to participate in the contest. Or contact us for enquiries, sponsorships and partnerships.