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2026 Michener–Deacon Fellowship Awarded to Jordan Michael Smith

His investigation, to be published by The Walrus, will examine the devastating consequences of international custody law

The Walrus congratulates journalist Jordan Michael Smith on being awarded the Michener–Deacon Fellowship for Investigative Journalism for his forthcoming project, “The Hague Mothers.”

The Walrus will publish the results of Smith’s investigation later this year.

Smith’s reporting will examine a troubling loophole in the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction that can lead to children being returned to potentially abusive parents, even when documented risks exist. The investigation will focus on the case of Thuy Nguyen, a Canadian woman whose children were ordered returned to their father in Poland despite his reported placement on Interpol’s most-wanted list.

Through court records, expert interviews, and cross-border reporting, “The Hague Mothers” will explore how international custody mechanisms intended to prevent child abduction can, in some cases, expose women and children to further danger.

“Given Jordan’s outstanding record reporting on criminal justice and social inequities, we’re excited to work with him on a story of enormous public importance,” said Carmine Starnino, editor-in-chief of The Walrus.

“The support of the Michener Fellowship will be indispensable in helping us bring this important investigation to fruition. The story behind ‘The Hague Mothers’ is of a profound injustice in the Canadian court system and reveals glaring flaws in the way we deal with survivors of domestic violence,” said Smith.

Jordan Michael Smith is an award-winning journalist whose work has appeared in publications including The New Republic, the New York Times, The Atlantic, and Harper’s Magazine. He was a 2025–2026 Journalism Fellow at Massey College at the University of Toronto. His reporting and essays have earned numerous honours, including the Dalton Camp Award and the Richard J. Margolis Award for Social Justice Journalism. His work has also been recognized by the Best True Crime Stories, Best American Science and Nature Writing, and Best American Essays anthologies. He lives in Toronto.

Founded in 2003, The Walrus publishes award-winning journalism on politics, culture, and public affairs, with a focus on rigorous reporting that deepens civic conversation across Canada.

The Michener-Deacon Investigative Journalism fellowship is awarded annually and offers the selected candidate the opportunity to dedicate up to four months on reporting a story. The Walrus is delighted to work with Jordan Michael Smith on this essential piece that serves public interest.

Smith will be officially honoured at the Michener Awards ceremony at Rideau Hall on Thursday, June 18, 2026.

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