Reporter Kim Lunman accepts a 1997 Michener Citation of Merit from Chief Justice Antonio Lamer on behalf of the Calgary Herald.
The Alberta newspaper was recognized for an investigation into the unusually high rate of unnatural deaths on the Stoney Indian Reserve and the exorbitant salaries paid to three chiefs while the tribe was reporting a large deficit. Several months later, after publication of conditions on the Reserve, the federal government took control of the band’s finances.
The Citation was presented during a ceremony held at Rideau Hall, April 28, 1998.
The distinction between the Michener and other media awards is primarily the emphasis on the degree of arms-length public benefit that is generated. Journalistic excellence alone is not enough. Other criteria include the resources available to the news organizations, an effort to level the playing field for small, medium and large applicants.