2026 Lifetime Achievement Award

Call for Nominations

Purpose of the Award

The NWCA Lifetime Achievement Award honors an Indigenous writer whose body of work and service have made a lasting impact on Indigenous literature and communities. This recognition reflects sustained commitment, mentorship, and cultural stewardship across a lifetime of literary work. The award acknowledges writers whose contributions have helped shape Indigenous literary futures and whose influence extends beyond individual publications to relationships, communities, and institutions.

Who May Nominate

Participation is open to eligible members of the Indigenous writing community and/or associated literary communities. Each participant may submit one ballot.

How to Nominate

Each nominator may submit up to three (3) names.

Nominations should reflect thoughtful consideration of a nominee’s lifetime contributions, including (but not limited to):

  • A sustained literary body of work

  • Mentorship, leadership, or advocacy for Indigenous writers

  • Service to Indigenous communities or institutions

  • Cultural stewardship and long-term impact

Submission Details

Nomination deadline: Friday, October 31, 2026 at 11:59 Pacific

Accessibility

If this form is not accessible to you, or if you would like to submit a nomination in another format, please contact us.

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