2009 Journalism Awards for Coverage of Black Politicians

Two famous African-American politicians, two different outcomes in 2008: 2009 Pulitzer Prize Winners in Journalism

Jim Schaefer, M.L. Elrick, and Free Press Editor Paul Anger

Photo Credit: Mary Schroeder, Detroit Free Press

Kwame Kilpatrick and Christine Beatty

On Monday, April 20, 2009, the Pulitzer Committee announced the winners of the Pulitzer Prizes for Journalism. Of particular interest to me was to the Detroit Free Press for Local Reporting:

For a distinguished example of reporting on significant issues of local concern, demonstrating originality and community expertise, in print or online or both, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000). Awarded to Detroit Free Press Staff, and notably Jim Schaefer and M.L. Elrick, for their uncovering of a pattern of lies by Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick that included denial of a sexual relationship with his female chief of staff, prompting an investigation of perjury that eventually led to jail terms for the two officials.

Euguene H. Robinson, Associate Editor President Barack Obama
Washington Post

Also, one of my favorite commentators on the MSNBC political shows, Eugene Robinson, was announced as a winner in the "Commentary" Category by the 2009 Pulitzer Committee:

For distinguished commentary, in print or online or both, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000). Awarded to Eugene Robinson of The Washington Post for his eloquent columns on the 2008 presidential campaign that focus on the election of the first African-American president, showcasing graceful writing and grasp of the larger historic picture.