Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) is pleased to announce the shortlist for the 2nd Annual Award for Outstanding Work by an Indigenous Youth Reporter.
The 2021 shortlist is:
Oscar Baker III: A story of resilience: Decision to take son off of life support still haunts Membertou First Nation father
Shelby Lisk: For our children: How families are passing down Indigenous languages
Chezney Martin: How can you reconcile on stolen land
The award seeks to recognize a piece of outstanding journalism created by a First Nations, Métis or Inuit journalist or team of journalists between the ages of 15 and 29 years old that was published or broadcast in any format and any medium in Canada during the 2020 calendar year.
The award is supported by the RBC Foundation as part of RBC Future Launch, the bank’s 10-year, $500-million commitment to preparing Canadian youth for the jobs of tomorrow.
The shortlist was chosen by a panel of three judges: Tanya Talaga, Anishinaabe journalist and author; Karyn Pugliese, Algonquian-Italian journalism professor and broadcaster; and Ryan McMahon, Anishinaabe writer, podcaster and comedian.
“It took us a long time to deliberate between the top three stories, all were very strong. The quality of the writing, and the depth of knowledge of the writers was impressive. Editors should keep an eye on all three writers, their talent will take them far in the industry.”
- Karyn Pugliese, panelist
About the shortlisted journalists:
Oscar Baker III is Black and Mi’kmaw from Elsipogtog First Nation. He is currently working as a freelance journalist and homemaker from his home in Indian Island First Nation.
Shelby Lisk is a Kanyen’kehá:ka photographer, filmmaker, and journalist with roots in Kenhtè:ke (Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory). She is currently TVO’s Indigenous Hub staff writer.
Chezney Martin is Haudenosaunee from the Turtle Clan of the Seneca Nation living on the Six
Nations of the Grand River Territory Reserve. She is a freelance journalist and Cultural Interpreter at the Woodland Cultural Centre.