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Science Writers and Communicators of Canada

Science Writers & Communicators of Canada (SWCC) was initially founded in 1971 as the Canadian Science Writers' Association by a small group of science and medical reporters who recognized their role in helping other Canadians better understand rapid changes occurring in our world. In 2017, the association updated its mandate to more adequately reflect the expanding nature of science communication in Canada, and to become more inclusive to those contributing to public scientific discourse across a full spectrum of channels. Today, we are a national association that welcomes media professionals, communications officers in science and technology-related institutions, technical writers and educators – all of whom are involved in communicating science and technology to non-specialist audiences. We foster quality science communication that links science and technology communicators from coast-to-coast. In the process, our members volunteer their time toward a series of programs committed to increasing public awareness of, and engagement with, Canadian science and technology – particularly among youth. SWCC operates several national programs, including its annual conference, which highlights current science and technology issues and brings together scientists, engineers, journalists, communicators, educators, youth and interested citizens. Held in a different city each year, the conference highlights local developments in science and technology and combines public forums and educational workshops to produce a serious focus on ways of communicating the importance of such developments to the Canadian public with the greatest impact. Each year, SWCC's Science in Society Journalism Awards program offers awards that recognize excellence in Canadian science journalism in all media. On the local level, SWCC is also involved in events including Word on the Street, environmental workshops and monthly public meetings discussing issues and advances in science and technology.