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Fee waivers for CBC literary contests

Fee waivers for CBC literary contests

84 signatures 16 to reach 100
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Eric R. signed
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Michael M. signed
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Edwin V. signed
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Beverley E. signed
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Carol P. signed
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Paul M. signed
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Dominique signed
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ililli a. signed
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Kathleen signed
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Charlie B. signed
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Started by Robert Priest 7 months, 1 week ago

We ask that CBC books initiate an honesty-based fee waiver option for the CBC Literary Contests. Application fees can be a significant obstacle for talented individuals who may not have the financial means to afford them. By offering waivers, the CBC can promote equality of opportunity in the arts and ensure that all voices have a chance to shine, regardless of their financial background.

Application fees can be a significant obstacle for talented individuals who may not have the financial means to afford them. By offering waivers, we can promote equality of opportunity in the arts and ensure that all voices have a chance to shine, regardless of their financial background.

Statistics show that minority groups are less likely to have disposable income to spend on artistic pursuits. According to a study by the Canada Council for the Arts, artists from Indigenous and other racialized backgrounds often face more financial hardships compared to their non-racialized counterparts. This financial disparity further perpetuates the lack of diversity in these competitions, denying audiences the richness and diversity of stories that can emerge from various cultural narratives.

The CBC has long been a promoter of Canadian arts and culture. Implementing a fee waiver would not only align with their mission of inclusivity and diversity but also serve as a beacon of support for emerging talents from all walks of life. Many large institutions around the world have already recognized the importance of such initiatives, understanding that the small step of waiving a fee can remove a significant barrier to participation.

33 Comments

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Olga Stein
6 months ago Featured

The fee waiver is crucial to supporting diversity in the most meaningful way — by removing a financial obstacle!

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Dominique
5 months ago Featured

Tried to sign but "oops something went wrong" - I will try again later - here is the note I wanted to add: "As our national broadcaster, the CBC has a duty to reach *all* Canadians, regardless of their financial circumstances. Talent isn't just for those with the money to play!"

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Mary Elizabeth Lauzon
6 months ago Featured

$25. Is too much for many people. Perhaps ask for a donation. Some will give more. Some less.

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Stuart Ross
6 months ago Featured

I think this a terrific initiative and CBC would be making an even greater contribution to the arts by taking down what is surely a barrier for many writers whose work might otherwise shine.

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Erella Ganon
7 months ago Featured

Application fees make things that are already difficult more so. Consider waiving the fees especially for something that represents a marginalized group.

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Blair Packham
7 months ago Featured

Incorporating an entry fee waiver for financially-challenged writers for CBC Literary Contests would be a great policy, particularly apt for Canada's citizen-supported broadcaster. It would be inclusive in every sense of the word, which I understood to be CBC's mandate.

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Edwin Varney
5 months ago

I never win contests because i never enter them.

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Kathleen
5 months ago

free the cbc!

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