The J. Carlisle Hanson Award in Human Rights is awarded annually on the recommendation of
the Director of the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies to a student enrolled in the human rights
program who submits the best essay addressing the topic of human rights and democracy.
Essays are also invited to examine the topics from a Canadian Perspective. Endowed in 2007 by J. Carlisle Hanson, Q.C.
This years winner is Kayla Hagerty as she wrote an incredible essay titled ““Guanitialé”.
Kayla Hagerty
“This essay was written for my HUMR4502 Global Indigenous Knowledges and Movements class. The assignment instructions asked us to write an essay explaining who Berta Càceres was and continues to be to the Indigenous Lenca people of Honduras, while conceptualizing her story in the broader study of Indigenous Knowledges and Movements. I used Berta Càceres’ story to express how it is Indigenous women that are often on the frontlines of rebellion when it comes to standing up for land rights, as they are seen as the custodians and teachers of ecological knowledge for their communities. Berta Càceres was assassinated by the Honduran government for protesting against the destruction of the sacred Gualcarque river. After her death, thousands of women and men were inspired to carry the torch, and continue to this day to stand up for land rights in Berta Càceres’ name. I dedicated this essay to Berta Càceres’ memory and the several other women across the world that have dedicated their lives to protecting the Earth and the sacred Indigenous lands that it holds.”
Congratulations Kayla for winning the contest and writing such a powerful essay.
Thank you to all other students who entered the contest.