Writers' Trust of Canada

An event in support of Writers’ Trust

Politics and the Pen

Highlights

Date
September 24, 2025

Information & Sponsorship

Lisa Shaw, Development Manager
lshaw@writerstrust.com

About the event

Politics and the Pen /  la politique et l'écrit

Politics and the Pen is a unique fundraiser that celebrates Canadian political and literary cultures and brings together national politicians, talented writers, prominent diplomats, and notable arts and business leaders. The event is the backdrop for the annual presentation of the $25,000 Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing, sponsored by CN.

Writers' Trust of Canada extends enormous thanks to the Politics and the Pen committee members. By directing the funds from this event to Writers’ Trust, this committee is supporting the Writers’ Trust's ability to advance, nurture, and celebrate Canadian writers and writing. Thanks to the work and generosity of this independent volunteer committee, Politics and the Pen has cumulatively raised more than $5 million, with the net proceeds directed to support Writers’ Trust literary programs.

2024 Event Photos

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Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing

Tanya Talaga

The Knowing 

Jane Philpott 

Health for All: A Doctor’s Prescription for a Healthier Canada 

Stephen Maher

The Prince: The Turbulent Reign of Justin Trudeau 

Alasdair Roberts

The Adaptable Country: How Canada Can Survive the Twenty-First Century 

Raymond B. Blake

Canada’s Prime Ministers and the Shaping of a National Identity 

More about the prize