The Atkinson Charitable Foundation is a private Canadian foundation established in 1942, which seeks to promote social and economic justice in the tradition of its founder, former Star Publisher Joseph E. Atkinson, who was an outspoken champion of new Canadians and relentlessly stood up for minority rights in the face of racism, bigotry and discrimination. The Foundation’s Atkinson Economic Justice Fellowships support social change leaders to continue to think and act for a more just future for all Canadians.
Ms. Uzma Shakir is a leading advocate for newcomer communities and an authority on issues such as poverty, access to professions and trades, legal educational services and the erosion of civil liberties. She is winding up a successful tenure as Executive Director of the South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALC), which has recently secured permanent provincial funding.
She has been awarded Atkinson Economic Justice Fellowships, which will provide up to $100,000 per year for 3 years to support Ms. Shakir's community-based work around immigration, multiculturalism and social inclusion.
"A stronger, more inclusive Canada is a dream that is worth fighting for. But for it to become a reality, today's immigrants and refugees must be among the architects that help shape the Canada of tomorrow. That is why we must find meaningful ways to bridge existing social divides on race, religion, gender and class," said Uzma Shakir, the Atkinson Foundation's newest Economic Justice Fellow.
"Addressing the scope of social and economic exclusion experienced by new immigrants requires fresh approaches, innovative thinking and determined leadership. Leadership by people like Uzma Shakir. This highly respected community advocate will strive to engage all Canadians in how we can shape a better future for everyone in our communities." said Peter A. Armstrong, President of the Board of Trustees of the Atkinson Charitable Foundation.
Previous winners of this Award include progressive economist Armine Yalnizyan, former premier Roy Romanow and housing activist Cathy Crowe.
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