DAWN Canada is proud to honour the individuals and organizations whose dedication advances the rights and well-being of women, girls, and gender-diverse people with disabilities through the Hummingbird Award.
The Hummingbird Award
Since 2020, the Hummingbird Award has honoured the ongoing and vital efforts of women who have made significant contributions to advancing women, girls, and gender-diverse people with disabilities. Recipients are recognized for their lasting impact in advancing rights, challenging systemic barriers, and improving lives. Organizations are also recognized for their efforts to break down barriers and support women, girls, and gender-diverse people with disabilities.
The award was introduced alongside DAWN Canada’s iconic hummingbird logo, a symbol of resilience, community, and transformation.
The Hummingbird Award Advisory Committee (HAAC)
The Hummingbird Award Advisory Committee (HAAC) was announced in June 2025. It is comprised of past recipients of DAWN Canada’s Hummingbird Award who were invited to form the inaugural Advisory Committee. The HAAC officially launched the Call for Nominations for the 2025 Awards on December 3, 2025. The award includes five award categories for which individuals and organizations can be nominated for.
How to Submit a Nomination
Read through the descriptions of the five award categories and decide which one best reflects your nominee’s contributions.
Complete the Nomination Form
You can submit a nomination by downloading a copy of the Nomination Form, or by completing the Online Nomination Form.
Submit Your Nomination
If using the PDF, please email the completed form and any supporting documents. If using the online form, simply select SUBMIT. You’ll receive a confirmation email once your nomination is received.
Women on Wings Award – Celebrating the Service of Former DAWN Canada Board Members
The Women on Wings Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals who have served on DAWN Canada’s Board of Directors. Created to honour the late Judi Johnny, a powerful advocate for Indigenous women with disabilities, the award pays tribute to Judi and to all the remarkable women and gender-diverse people who have generously shared their time, wisdom, and hearts to strengthen this organization. It was launched at DAWN’s Annual General Meeting on October 19, 2024, in St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Recipients of the Women on Wings Award are presented with a Connections Blanket, a meaningful symbol of gratitude and respect.
The blanket was designed by Emily Kewageshig for Mini Tipi. Emily is an Anishnaabe artist and visual storyteller from Saugeen First Nation No. 29. Her work is centered around themes of birth, death, and rebirth, which are closely intertwined in both her cultural teachings and personal lived experiences.
DAWN Canada is privileged to present these awards and deeply honoured to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of the individuals and organizations whose work advances equality, inclusion, and justice. Through this recognition, we affirm the vital impact of their leadership and commitment.
