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Sheila McGeehan honored with 2006 Racial Justice Award

Sheila McGeehan
Sheila McGeehan.
Photo: CWS/Lancaster
June 1, 2006

Sheila McGeehan, Coordinator of the Church World Service local refugee resettlement affiliate agency in Lancaster, Pa., has been honored with the Lancaster YWCA's Racial Justice Award for 2006.

McGeehan was cited for her "outstanding contributions to the fight against racism and injustice."

"Many of us forget the plight of the many people who immigrate to America every year, and the struggles and barriers they face once they arrive," said Jonelle Anderson, Acting Chair of the Lancaster YWCA's Racial Justice Award Taskforce.

She told McGeehan, "Your work with a population so often forgotten is not only inspiring but a testament to everyone who fights against racism in every form."

The award was presented at a May 11 reception in honor of outstanding visitors and volunteers, held during the Lancaster YWCA's annual membership meeting.

"I accepted the award on behalf of all my staff," McGeehan said. "We felt really good to have colleagues recognize us in this way.

"In refugee resettlement work, we don't usually use the words 'racial justice,' 'segregation,' or 'integration,'" she observed. "But upon reflection, we are working for racial justice. We are always trying to get our clients integrated into the community as active, participating members. And we are always emphasizing the equality of all people."

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