Notes on the recipients from the speech delivered by Robert Forsey, Chair, The Casey Awards 2014:
“Rick Mercer, Canada’s foremost political satirist, is one of our social justice champions, who has proudly shone a light on Casey House and the cause of HIV/AIDS. He is also a champion of many other issues such as fighting against malaria in developing nations, fighting for the rights of the LGBTQ community through his work with PFLAG, and ensuring that people in isolated communities get access to health care through transportation with the charity Hope Air.
But I think many of us will recognize that behind many a good man is a good man. And that’s where Gerald comes in. Rick may be the public face of this political satire and social justice empire – but as co-creator and Executive Producer of The Rick Mercer Report, Gerald Lunz is very much responsible for creating the platform from which Rick makes magic happen. So as a committee we are delighted to honour both of them for their extraordinary support.
On behalf of the committee, I would like to extend warmest congratulations. The values and actions that you demonstrate in your work, shining a light on the wonderful – and sometimes, not so wonderful – aspects of Canada and our global society are an inspiration to all of us.”