Fourth edition of the "My Pen Against Racism and Racial Profiling" competition: a successful awards ceremony

L'Assomption, March 28, 2026 – The awards ceremony for the 4th edition of the "My Pen Against Racism and Racial Profiling" competition was successfully held this Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Collège de l'Assomption, in the presence of more than 100 people who came to celebrate the commitment and talent of youth.

Held in a solemn yet warm atmosphere, the ceremony brought together students, parents, school staff, elected officials, and numerous community guests. A total of 30 finalists from 16 schools in the greater Montreal area were honoured at this event, which highlights young people's voices on the realities of racism and racial profiling.

Organized by LAKAY, this competition has, for the past four years, provided a platform for secondary school students to express themselves, reflect, denounce injustice, and raise awareness through writing. Through their texts, these young people contribute to fostering essential discussions on justice, inclusion, and living together.

The Jury's Choice Award was given to Lilyanna Gagnon, from Collège Esther-Blondin, for her text Between two shores, my voice breaks the silence.

In the lower secondary school category, the first prize was awarded to Lila Scozzaro, from Collège Saint-Sacrement, for her poem I have a dream. The second prize was awarded to Fleur Sanchez, from Robert-Gravel High School, for her text You, the intruder.

In the upper secondary category, the first prize was awarded to Anaïs Hanout, from Collège Mont-Royal, for her text When light learns to speak. The second prize went to Marie Kéranne N'Guessan, from École Étoile-du-Nord, for her text The color of my dream.

On the English-speaking side, the first prize was awarded to Hafsa Bam Hamed, from Jacques-Rousseau High School, for her text A Fight for Humanity. The second prize was awarded to Coralie Elisabeth Antoine, from Collège de l'Assomption, for That One Joke.

It is important to note that this ceremony is part of the Week of Action Against Racism, which has been held annually in Quebec for over 20 years. Through this initiative, LAKAY reaffirms the importance of amplifying the voices of young people and recognizing their role in the fight against racism and racial profiling.

For more information about the competition, the winners and previous editions, please visit our website:
https://lakaymedia.org/concours-de-texte/