Starting in 2027, and going forward annually if Isabella can afford it, the Phoenix Poetry Prize will appoint prizes to outstanding books of poetry published by poets in Canada / poets writing on unceded, Indigenous land that "Canada" stole.

The cash is miniscule, but appreciation and love is genuine. This prize is made possible with help from the community, dedicating their time, energy, and expertises into making this happen. 

MANDATE

Short cuts only.
Avoid superfluous bureaucracy whenever, wherever possible.

Support poets.
All poets per entry season get opportunities to be recognized. Everyone is invited to galas and events, everyone gets the space to be promoted by the Phoenix Poetry Prize.

Support the supporters of poets.
All publishing houses that submit to the prize get acknowledged. There will be social media shoutouts. Everyone on the editorial teams is invited to galas and events, and are offered opportunities for collaboration.

Cut gatekeeping barriers.
There is no entry fee to submit to the contest; publishers are encouraged to instead, donate one unused postage stamp that will go towards fan mail for their authors. Acknowledging the high cost of shipping prices, the Phoenix Poetry Prize is also accommodating exclusively digital submissions to ensure that ALL eligible poets are entered.

No sugar-coating the arbitrariness of arbitration.
The Phoenix Poetry Prize refuses to pretend to be objective. The unorthodox judging processes reflect this.

Accepting the impoverished state of arts organizations.
Sponsors are encouraged to participate through the “a little bit from everyone” model. This is to acknowledge that as an arts community, our collective resources are finite. We can take care of each other by offering within our capacity, but also by reminding each other that it's important to take care of oneself and one's own organization and community first. All sponsors, regardless of how much or little they contribute, are thanked equally and get equal promo space.

Take care of folks.
This prize is run by a chronically ill and disabled hooman. Please be kind and patient. Our board adheres to a "contribute a little if you can, ignore the rest of the time" practice.

ADVISORY BOARD / BOARD OF DIRECTORS
(what's the difference I dunno)

NIX
Prize mascot & president

ISABELLA WANG
Semi-competent founder

SELENA MERCURI
General Advisor

JOSEPH DANDURAND
Poet Advisor

CARRIANNE LEUNG
Auntie

HOLLAY GHADERY
​Treasurer (of Ideas)
Head of Support & Enthusiasm committee

MURGATROYD MONAGHAN
Talented Graphics Designer

SPONSORS

Thank you to our kind sponsors.
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