National News Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2009 Ron Wiebe Restorative Justice Award Recipient Announced

Ottawa, November 20, 2009 - John McKendy was awarded the eleventh annual Ron Wiebe Restorative Justice Award in posthumous during a ceremony in St. John’s, Newfoundland on November 19. The award honours the late Ron Wiebe, former Correctional Service Canada (CSC) Warden of Ferndale and Elbow Lake Institutions in British Columbia, for his inspiration and commitment to restorative justice.

Members of McKendy’s family accepted the award on his behalf, as, sadly, he passed away on October 31, 2008.

McKendy was an individual who was deeply committed to restorative justice, both as an individual and as a community service worker.

He promoted and practiced non-violent conflict resolution, and for many years, he assisted men in Dorchester Penitentiary in discovering alternatives to violence.

McKendy often took people by surprise with random acts of kindness and found joy in life’s simple things. Although many are deeply impacted by his death, countless people were impacted by his life.

Created by CSC in 1999, the award recognizes Canadians who have demonstrated, through their work or lifestyle, ways of transforming human relationships by promoting communication and healing between people in conflict, including victims, offenders, colleagues, families or neighbours.

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For information on Restorative Justice please visit www.csc-scc.gc.ca or call:

Tania Petrellis
Director, Restorative Justice
Correctional Service Canada
(613) 316-8452

Étienne Chiasson
Media Relations
Correctional Service Canada
(506) 851-2186