TORONTO -- The Tragically Hip will receive the 2021 Humanitarian Award at this yearās Juno Awards, the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences announced Wednesday.
The beloved Kingston, Ont., rockers will receive the award for the bandās philanthropic and humanitarian contributions spanning several decades.
āFor decades, this group of musical brothers has contributed to helping improve the social well-being of others and protecting the vast natural wonders of this country we call home,ā Allan Reid, president and CEO of the Junos, said in a news release.
Over the years, The Hip have hosted and played in several benefit shows to raise funds for hospitals in their hometown as well as non-government organizations. The band has also raised and donated money to several charities including Camp Trillium and the Special Olympics.
āAfter a challenging year when the power of kindness and generosity were more necessary than ever, we are proud to commemorate the bandās tireless activism and charitable achievements,ā Reid said.
The Hip also raised more than $1 million for the Canadian Cancer Society and the Sunnybrook Foundation during the bandās final 15-show tour in 2016, a year before frontman Gord Downie died of brain cancer at age 53.
The surviving members said they are āhonouredā to be receiving the award, while praising the late Downie for setting an example.
āOur admiration for the past recipients makes it impossible not to feel humbled as well. We learned early on back in Kingston that you can accomplish great things with a stage and a willing audience,ā The Hip said in a statement. āItās about building community, and no one appreciated that responsibility more than Gord Downie. He was committed to social and environmental justice and we remain inspired by his example.
āBest intentions can achieve little without loyal support and action, so we consider this award as much a recognition for fans of our group, as they have been there for us through everything, and for every cause, and for that we are eternally grateful. We share this honour with you,ā the band said.
The Hip will receive the award during the JUNO Awards broadcast on May 16. Past Humanitarian Award recipients include David Foster, Arcade Fire, Rush, Chantal Kreviazuk and Raine Maida.
