June Callwood (1924–2007)
The Book and Periodical Council notes with sadness the death of June Callwood, one of Canada’s preeminent writers and activists.
In 1995, Ms. Callwood chaired the Book and Periodical Council. She also chaired the Council’s Freedom of Expression Committee in its earliest years.
Throughout her life, Ms. Callwood helped launch many organizations including The Writers’ Union of Canada, the Periodical Writers Association of Canada, the Electronic Rights Licensing Agency, PEN Canada and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association.
She served on the executive of many of these organizations. In 1989, she served as the president of PEN Canada. In 1979–80, she chaired The Writers’ Union of Canada. She also served on the Advisory Committee of CanCopy (now Access Copyright).
Throughout her life, Ms. Callwood defended the expression rights of writers and argued against censorship. In 2006, she won the Canadian Library Association’s Award for the Advancement of Intellectual Freedom in Canada.
The Book and Periodical Council extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of June Callwood. Our loss is great.
