Honouring a Legacy, Empowering Future Leaders

In 2007, longtime activist and Salt Spring Island resident Jack Hallam created a lasting gift for his community: the Jack Hallam Human Rights Award. Through Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada, Jack ensured that each year a graduating student at Gulf Islands Secondary School (GISS) would be recognized for outstanding leadership in the fight against homophobia, transphobia, and intersecting forms of discrimination—including racism, ableism, and colonial violence.

Jack believed in the power of young people to change the world. His award uplifts 2SLGBTIA+ students and allies who take bold, public stands for human rights in their school and community. The award has been granted annually since 2007 and is currently valued at $1,000 per recipient. It is open to Grade 12 students at GISS who submit an essay, media project, or demonstrate community activism that addresses the human rights of LGBTI people and those who experience additional marginalization based on race, gender, class, disability, or other factors.

But time is running out. With only $4,750 left from Jack’s original donation, the fund will soon be depleted.

We’re launching a campaign to raise $30,000 to create a permanent fund that will allow the award to grow and continue indefinitely. Our goal is also to increase the annual award to $2,000, better reflecting the impact and importance of the recipients’ leadership and commitment to justice.

Your donation is a powerful act of solidarity

You’re not just preserving Jack’s legacy—you’re investing in young leaders who are reshaping the future.

Together, let’s ensure this vital award continues to honour courageous 2SLGBTIA+ youth for generations to come.

Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada is a registered Canadian charitable organization dedicated to empowering the needs and voices of 2SLGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC communities by providing educational opportunities and financial assistance.