Supporting Indigenous Excellence in Sport, Education & Community

The Red Tape Award, an initiative of the Red Tape Athletic Fund, celebrates Indigenous student-athletes who exemplify leadership, perseverance, and community spirit.

Each year, the award recognizes one Indigenous athlete competing in Atlantic University Sport (AUS) who demonstrates excellence in athletics, promise in academics, and meaningful community involvement.

Grounded in the spirit of the Red Tape Movement, the award honours the resilience of Indigenous athletes who continue to face systemic barriers to post-secondary sport and education.

Cheryl MacDonald and Phillip Prosper at the Dauphinee Centre during the 2023 Red Tape Celebration. (Photo credit: Phillip Prosper)

About the Award

Made possible through the generosity of the MacDonald Family, the Red Tape Award provides $1,000 annually to support the recipient’s educational or athletic journey. The family has pledged this support for five years and invites additional contributions to help ensure the award’s long-term sustainability.

The inaugural 2025–26 award will be presented exclusively to a current Indigenous AUS athlete at Saint Mary’s University, recognizing SMU’s leadership in advancing the Red Tape Movement. Beginning in 2026–27, the award will expand to include Indigenous athletes from all AUS institutions.

Key Information

Timeline

Timeline

  • Applications Open: Monday, November 24, 2025, at 8:00 AM (AT)
  • Applications Close: Friday, January 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM (AT)

Eligibility

Eligibility

  • Open to current Indigenous student-athletes competing in AUS.
  • Priority is given to athletes in their first or second year of study and sport eligibility.
  • Past recipients may reapply, though repeat selection is not guaranteed.

Application Details

Application Details

  • Submit a personal reflection (approximately 500 words) on the relationship between sport, education, and Indigenous community involvement.
  • Submissions may be written, video, or audio, and may include artistic elements such as photos, illustrations, or music.
  • Include a brief letter of support from an Elder or community Leader.

Applications will be reviewed by at least two Indigenous evaluators for depth, relevance, and clarity.

How to Apply

How to Apply

Submit your application and letter of support to the Red Tape Athletic Fund Advisory Committee at:

📧 [email protected]

If you do not receive a confirmation within one week, please resend your submission.

Join the Movement

The Red Tape Award is part of a growing effort to recognize and empower Indigenous athletes who are breaking barriers and leading change within their communities.

Together, we can continue to honour Indigenous excellence in sport, education, and leadership. Donate today!

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