Journalist Elaine Dewar, 77, Passes Away, Leaving Legacy of Justice

BREAKING: Renowned investigative journalist Elaine Dewar has died at the age of 77 in Toronto on September 18, 2023. Known for her relentless pursuit of truth and justice, Dewar leaves behind a powerful legacy that challenged societal injustices throughout her illustrious career.

Dewar’s meticulous research and unwavering integrity made her a formidable figure in Canadian journalism. Her publisher, Dan Wells, stated, “She hated, as she called them, ‘lying liars who lied,’” illustrating her fierce commitment to uncovering the truth. Her extensive body of work spanned critical societal issues, from environmental politics to the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples.

Among her notable works, *Cloak of Green* examined environmental politics, while *Bones: Discovering the First Americans* revealed the racism embedded in historical narratives. Her book, *The Second Tree*, earned the 2005 Writers Trust prize for non-fiction, showcasing her ability to tackle complex moral issues surrounding biological advancements. Her last work, scheduled for release in 2026, delves into her family’s history, reflecting her deep-rooted connection to her Jewish heritage.

Dewar was born in Saskatoon, where her family’s story significantly influenced her life and work. “She discovered that her grandparents were really the most unlikely prairie pioneers,” said her friend Marci McDonald. Dewar’s lineage included urban Romanians and Russian Jews, highlighting a rich tapestry of resilience and community that shaped her worldview.

Her childhood was marked by civic engagement, particularly during the 1962 Doctor’s Strike, when her father, Dr. Sam Landa, played a pivotal role in organizing medical care for the province. Dewar’s upbringing instilled a strong sense of responsibility and community that resonated throughout her life and career.

Dewar’s journey led her to York University in Toronto, where she emerged as a voice for feminist ideals. She met her husband, Stephen Dewar, at a young age, and their partnership flourished over decades. Together, they navigated the world of media, with Elaine contributing significantly to Stephen’s production company.

Starting her journalism career at Maclean’s, Dewar quickly made her mark with a bold piece predicting financial disaster for the Montreal Olympics. Transitioning to freelance writing in the 1980s, she explored corporate culture and exposed corruption, notably with a sensational piece for Toronto Life that resulted in a $102 million libel suit.

At her funeral, McDonald praised Dewar’s passion, stating, “Ideas, friendships, her family… she brought it to the stories that she decided needed telling.” Her latest project, focused on reported medical experiments on Indigenous students, underscored her commitment to justice until the end. “She was not content with another explosive investigative book,” McDonald added, emphasizing Dewar’s dedication to addressing the ethical failures of society.

In her final days, Dewar reflected on her life, noting the significant changes in the world for Jewish people since her birth in June 1948, a month after Israel’s establishment. “She was the fearless warrior in her life, in her work and in her death,” her brother Murray stated, highlighting her indomitable spirit.

Elaine Dewar is survived by her daughters, Anna and Danielle, three granddaughters, and extended family. Her passing marks a profound loss for the journalistic community and all who fought for justice alongside her.

Her legacy continues to inspire generations of journalists and advocates for social justice. The world will remember her not just for her remarkable work but for her unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth, no matter the cost.