Canadian Authors Association

The Canadian Authors Association (CAA) is Canada's oldest and most prestigious organization for writers and authors, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1921 by prominent writers such as Stephen Leacock, John Murray Gibbon, Bernard Keble Sandwell, and Pelham Edgar[1][2][3]. Headquartered in Orillia, Ontario, the CAA is a federal not-for-profit organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of Canadian writers across the country.

History and Mission

The CAA was established to advocate for the rights of authors and to support the development of literary works. By the end of its first year, the organization had accumulated more than 700 members, reflecting its immediate impact within the literary community[2]. The CAA has traditionally been known for its support of traditional genres and settings in literature.

Activities and Publications

The organization publishes several periodicals and manages local chapters, offering a range of activities such as workshops, readings, and study groups to help writers improve their craft and promote their work[2][3]. In 1919, the CAA initiated the "Canadian Bookman", followed by "Canadian Poetry" in 1936, which was edited by E.J. Pratt. The CAA played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Governor General's Awards, Canada's highest literary honor, first awarded in 1937[2].

Notable Presidents and Awards

Notable past presidents include Will R. Bird, writer and recipient of the Ryerson Fiction Award, and W. G. Hardy, a Professor of Classics and President of the International Ice Hockey Federation[2]. The CAA also sponsors its own awards and supports initiatives like the Canadian Writers' Foundation, which provides financial assistance to needy authors and their families[4].

Current Role

Today, the CAA operates with ten local branches across Canada, providing comprehensive support to its members at every stage of their careers. It offers practical programs focused on developing writing skills and promoting members' work through various platforms such as book fairs, public readings, and newsletters[5]. The CAA continues to play a significant role in promoting literary excellence and supporting Canadian writers through its annual conferences, webinars, and local workshops[5].

[1] https://canadianauthors.org/national/history/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_Authors_Association [3] https://canadianauthors.org/national/about-caa/ [4] https://discoverarchives.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/canadian-authors-association-2 [5] https://www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Committee/421/INDU/Brief/BR10271253/br-external/CanadianAuthorsAssociation01-e.pdf