Yes, that string of words in the subject line actually means something. Last Drink Bird Head is a charity anthology being put together by master anthologists Ann and Jeff VanderMeer. In their own words,

The purpose of the awards is to celebrate those in the genre community who enrich us with their time, energy, and words, often for causes greater than themselves.

Proceeds from the anthology go to ProLiteracy.org, for the promotion of adult literacy. The anthology’s a limited edition and has a truly star-studded table of contents, so order yours now if you want a copy. But back to the point — who have they nominated for this year’s “Gentle Advocacy” award? Why, it’s one of ABW’s own:

Gentle Advocacy
In recognition of individuals willing to enter into blunt discourse about controversial issues…

– K. Tempest Bradford
– Nick Mamatas
– John Scalzi

Throw your hands up for KTB! And cross your fingers so she’ll win.

Seriously, tho’ — 2009 has been The Year of Fail in science fictionland, as seemingly every other week the genre picks up its foot, sprinkles MSG on the toe, then shoves it deep down its own throat sideways. A lot of good people have been stepping up at last to say in unequivocal, loud voices that racism and sexism and homophobia and alllllll the other crap the SF establishment has gotten away with for generations is Not Acceptable. But some people in SFdom seem to think that this pushback is the problem, not the serious problems that caused the pushback in the first place. So it’s nice to see some of the most respected folks in the establishment acknowledging that the pushback is a good and necessary thing, and recognizing the ones who’ve been loudest and bravest.

Bravo to the nominees and the nominators.