Niigaan Sinclair, an Indigenous writer, activist and professor in the U of M’s department of Indigenous studies has won the prestigious 2024 Governor General’s Literary Award for non-fiction. His book Wînipêk: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre earned him a place among the 14 winners announced by the Canada Council for the Arts on Nov. 13, 2024.
Sinclair’s book explores Winnipeg’s past, present and potential, examining its relationship with Indigenous peoples and the crucial role they play in addressing issues like climate change, economic development and reconciliation. Wînipêk highlights the challenges and solutions found within the city and its surrounding watershed, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the region and its people.
In an exclusive interview, Sinclair expressed his surprise and delight at winning the award. “I’m very happy, very excited, very surprised,” he shared. “I didn’t have any visions of winning an award for this book.” He acknowledged the support of his publisher, McClelland & Stewart, who believed in the book’s potential and helped it become a national bestseller.
Sinclair, who began writing actively during the Idle No More movement in 2012, reflected on his journey as a writer. He emphasized the importance of practice and dedication, stating, “writing is muscle […] nobody starts out being an excellent writer […] with dedication and with time, anybody can be an excellent writer.” He credited his academic career, particularly a professor who challenged him with rigorous writing exercises, with honing his literary skills.
Sinclair recalled that this award is an encouragement for him to do and achieve more with his writing. He has already signed with McClelland & Stewart to write his next book about love.
“But I’m talking about love as a duty, as reconciliation […] How Indigenous peoples are talking about love when we talk about rights, and responsibilities, and relationships. And so that’s my next book.”
This year’s Governor General’s Literary Awards saw over 1,500 books nominated, with 70 finalists vying for the top honours in seven categories. Sinclair’s win marks the significance of Wînipêk contributing to the national conversation about Indigenous rights, reconciliation and Canada’s future.
Another Winnipeg writer, Chimwemwe Undi, also received a Governor General’s Literary Award this year in the poetry category for her collection Scientific Marvel. Although the Manitoban was unable to reach Undi for an interview, the collection speaks of history, race, gender and colonialism, offering a striking reflection on Winnipeg and the prairies from the perspective of those often overlooked.
Infused with rhythmic drive and wit, Undi’s work also tackles topics like queerness, climate rage, decolonization and personal identity.
Undi’s poetry remains deeply rooted in lived experiences, addressing intimate themes like self-expression, art, relationships and pop culture alongside broader societal critiques.
The Governor General’s Literary Awards, founded in 1936, are among the oldest and most prestigious literary prizes in Canada celebrating outstanding literary works in both English and French languages. Winners receive $25,000 each, while publishers earn a $3,000 grant and finalists are awarded $1,000 per book.
Sinclair and Undi’s win mark a significant achievement for Winnipeg’s literary community and solidifies the city’s growing prominence in Canadian literature.
For more information on the Governor General Literary Awards guidelines, eligibility and deadlines, please visit canadacouncil.ca/funding/prizes/governor-generals-literary-awards.
