The Institute of International Peace Leaders (IIPL) is honored to announce that Catherine Mardon, a distinguished author, human rights advocate, and disability activist, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious IIPL Peace Award. This recognition is in acknowledgment of her extraordinary contributions to justice, human rights, disability advocacy, and global peace efforts.

A Life Dedicated to Justice and Advocacy

Catherine Mardon has dedicated her life to advocating for individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), mental health awareness, and disability rights. Despite facing severe personal challenges, she has remained a tireless champion for the marginalized and vulnerable, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are protected.

Prior to becoming disabled herself, she served as a lawyer in Oklahoma, USA, where she played a critical role in fighting extremism and domestic terrorism. In the 1990s, she conducted undercover work for the FBI, leading to several white supremacist leaders being sentenced to long prison terms. Her courageous testimony resulted in her being offered witness protection by the FBI, but in retaliation, she was brutally attacked and stabbed 17 times. Miraculously surviving the ordeal, she suffered multiple permanent injuries, including traumatic brain damage, yet her commitment to justice never wavered.

After these life-altering events, she relocated to Canada with her husband, Dr. Austin Mardon, where she has continued her humanitarian work. Her recent achievements include being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her impactful work in supporting 20 youth with FASD over the past decade.

Global Recognition for Her Contributions

Catherine Mardon’s dedication has been widely recognized. She and her husband were personally honored by Pope Francis I with the Papal Order of St. Sylvester, one of the highest Vatican state honors for a living person—an accolade previously awarded to notable figures such as former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and the late Aga Khan.

She is also an assistant adjunct professor at the John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Alberta. Additionally, she has chronicled her incredible life journey in her autobiography ‘Curveballs’, which is available in ebook, audio, and print formats.

IIPL Recognizes Her Unwavering Commitment

The IIPL Peace Award is bestowed upon individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage, resilience, and leadership in advancing human rights, justice, and global peace. Catherine Mardon’s story of sacrifice, perseverance, and relentless activism embodies the core values of this award.

Speaking about this honor, Muhammad Atta ur Rehman, Chairman of IIPL, stated:
“Catherine Mardon’s life is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Her dedication to human rights, advocacy for people with disabilities, and fearless stand against extremism make her a true inspiration. It is our privilege to recognize her with the IIPL Peace Award.”