Five Canadian writers have been selected as finalists for the 2026 Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing, which awards $40,000 annually to a work of literary nonfiction focusing on a political theme relevant to Canadian readers and politics. The shortlist includes Don Gillmor’s “On Oil,” Maggie Helwig’s “Encampment,” Brian Stewart’s “On the Ground,” Ira Wells’ “On Book Banning,” and Karin Wells’ “Women Who Woke up the Law.”
Gillmor’s “On Oil” delves into the enduring presence of oil in modern society, drawing from his own experiences as a roughneck on oil rigs during the seventies boom in Alberta. Helwig’s “Encampment” offers a detailed exploration of the struggles faced by homeless individuals in Toronto, shedding light on their challenges and advocating for their rights. Stewart’s “On the Ground” is a memoir reflecting on his time as a CBC foreign correspondent, emphasizing the importance of insightful journalism.
Wells’ “On Book Banning” examines historical and contemporary attempts to censor literature, from ancient library destruction to current government-led suppression of LGBTQ+ content, highlighting the significance of freedom to read in upholding democracy. In “Women Who Woke up the Law,” Karin Wells narrates the remarkable stories of Eliza Campbell, Chantale Daigle, and Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, whose legal battles advanced women’s rights in Canada against all odds.
The shortlisted works were chosen by jurors Norma Dunning, Chantal Hébert, and Paul Wells, all previous nominees for the prize. The winner will be revealed at the Politics and the Pen gala on April 29. Last year’s recipient was Raymond B. Blake for “Canada’s Prime Ministers and the Shaping of a National Identity.”
The Shaughnessy Cohen Prize, named after the former Member of Parliament from Windsor, Ontario, is managed by the Writers’ Trust of Canada, sponsored by CN, and backed by the Politics and the Pen gala. The Writers’ Trust supports Canadian writers through various initiatives including 11 national literary awards, fellowships, grants, and mentorship programs. Past winners include John Vaillant, Kamal Al Solaylee, Beverley McLachlin, Jane Jacobs, and Roméo Dallaire.
