Franke James is a Canadian artist, author and activist. She was awarded the PEN Canada / Ken Filkow 2015 Prize for "her tenacity in uncovering an abuse of power, and commitment to fostering a national conversation in the face of censorship." BC Civil Liberties Association presented her with the 2014 Liberty Award for Excellence in the Arts for “her focus on environmental and social justice, and her fight for free expression.” She is the author of three award-winning books, Banned on the Hill (2013), Bothered By My Green Conscience (2009), and Dear Office-Politics: the game everyone plays (2009). Banned on the Hill won Gold at the 2014 IPPY Awards, Independent Book Publishers Awards, and Silver Award, Foreword Reviews’ IndieFab 2013 Book of the Year Award. Franke’s artwork and books have won awards and been featured in print, TV, radio and online in Canada, the USA and in many parts of the world. She is a member of The Writers’ Union of Canada, PEN Canada, and Canadian Artists Representation (CARFAC). Franke has delivered keynotes, speeches and workshops at educational events in Canada and the USA. “Franke James is among the tiny handful of really powerful and profound artists who have taken on climate change – the most important topic on the planet, but one so big and all-encompassing that it often defies artistic interpretation. Her work is incredibly important for many of us around the world.” ~ Bill McKibben, Founder 350.org