Awarded monthly to outstanding pieces of journalism that expose social and economic injustices. Winners receive a $500 honorarium and a certificate designed by New Yorker cartoonist Edward Sorel. Nominations are accepted on behalf of an entire publication, or by individual writers working in any medium—print, photojournalism, online, or opinion and analysis.
The prize honors the legacy of Sidney Hillman, who devoted his life to building “a better America.” Founded in 1946, the foundation carries out his work by awarding monetary prizes for journalism that illuminates the great issues of our times—from the search for a basis for lasting peace, to the need for better housing, medical care and employment security for all people, to the promotion of civil liberties, democracy and the battle against discrimination of every kind. The Hillman Prizes were named in his memory and are endowed by his family and friends. The winners are chosen by a panel of judges, including Jamelle Bouie, columnist, The New York Times; Maria Carrillo, former enterprise editor, Tampa Bay Times/Houston Chronicle; Ta-Nehisi Coates, author and bestselling author; and Alix Freedman, global editor, Ethics and Standards, Reuters.
Overland’s 2024 Neilma Sidney Short Story Prize, recently organized by the journal’s staff and named after our late friend and colleague, is open to writers nationally and internationally at all stages of their writing careers. This year’s theme is ‘travel’; imaginative, creative and literary interpretations are encouraged. Writers can enter by subscribing to Overland for one year at the special subscriber rate.
In the ten years since its launch, the Sidney Prize has become the leading U.S. prize for progressive journalism and a model for similar awards elsewhere. The prestigious prize has honored many outstanding authors—from the acclaimed historian Howard Zinn to investigative journalist John Pilger, whose “War on Terror” won a Pulitzer. The prize has also inspired the creation of other progressive journalism awards, including the PEN/Frances Perkins Freedom of Speech Award and the RFK Journalism Prize.
The Foundation is proud to continue the SEIU award for reporting on racial and economic justice in the United States and Canada. The 2025 call for U.S. Hillman Prize entries opens November 12, 2024; all CANADA submissions will be considered for the US prize as well. Submissions will close on January 15, 2025. Click here to learn more about the competition and how to apply.