The submissions for the 2024 Henry Armstrong Award are open now until April 26, 2024. Please visit our Application Eligibility and Rules page for more information.

ABOUT THE HENRY ARMSTRONG AWARD

The Henry Armstrong Award (HAA) is a newly launched bursary and mentorship program, created to develop, elevate, and support Indigenous artists within the Canadian music industry. Named for MDM Recordings Inc. president and founder Mike Denney’s grandfather Lloyd Henry and mother Gloria Denney (née Armstrong), both fellow Six Nations Lower Mohawk, The Henry Armstrong Award aims to provide unique opportunities for growth and development to the selected recipient.

The genesis for the HAA began in the spring of 2021, following the initial uncovering of the 215 Indigenous children in the Kamloops Residential School mass grave. Knowing he wanted to help, Denney called upon his fellow industry and quickly put together a committee united with the goal of promoting inclusivity, equity, and equality in the Canadian Indigenous Music space.

Newly launched in 2022, the HAA is open to all Indigenous music artists across Canada. Following the application window, a juried selection process will begin via a committee of Canadian music industry professionals, culminating with the chosen act receiving a $10,000 bursary, along with a tailored mentorship program of professional development services.

MISSION STATEMENT / ORIGINS

The mission of the Henry Armstrong Award is simple – to further develop, elevate and support the diverse talents in the Canadian Indigenous music community.

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THE ICON

This logo utilizes the visual lexicon of the Dakota Nation and is based heavily on Indigenous astronomy and understanding of the universe.

The centrepiece features the symbol for the milky way, with directional arrows pointing towards it, with the motif for the clouds closing out the form. These shapes then make up the symbol for the star.

To summarize this concept in total, it’s about receiving knowledge from the stars. I also thought that the arrows could double as a reference to the play button.

Leticia Spence, from Pimicikamak and Opaskwayak Cree Nation, conceptualized and designed the Henry Armstrong Award icon. Leticia is a freelance graphic designer and illustrator based in Treaty One territory.

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DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

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SUBMISSION FORM

The Henry Armstrong Award is open to all Indigenous artists in the Canadian music industry regardless of genre. Please take the time to thoroughly read our Application Eligibility and Rules to ensure you meet the specific eligibility requirements.

CONTACT US

Have any other questions about the Henry Armstrong Award? Check out our FAQs or send us a note. 

FAQ
How often is the Henry Armstrong Award given out? 

This is an annual award, given out once a year on June 21st or National Indigenous People’s Day.


Who decides the award recipient?

The HAA recipient is decided by a committee of music industry professionals across various areas of expertise and includes representatives from Indigenous communities across Canada.

Who is eligible for the award?

The award is open to all Canadian Indigenous musical artists across multiple genres.

When is the deadline?

The deadline for submissions is April 26, 2024. ⁠

How do I apply?

Click HERE for the official submission form.