CWS Lancaster recently partnered with NPR StoryCorps's American Pathways program to record podcasts with local refugee storytellers. These recordings have been interpreted into unique works of art by local Lancaster artists.
Find the full recordings here:
Miguel Rodriguez and Sheila Mastropietro: Sheila Mastropietro (CWS Lancaster Founder and former Director) interviews her friend Miguel Rodriguez about his experience migrating from Cuba to the United States and building a life in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Ole Hongvanthong and Susan Bleil: Friends and colleagues Ole Hongvanthong and Susan "Sue" Bleil discuss being small business owners in Lancaster county and the importance of community connection.
Omar Mohamed and Valentina Ross: Coworkers Valentina Ross (current CWS Lancaster Director) and Omar Mohamed (author of When Stars Are Scattered) discuss the importance of highlighting refugees' stories, how immigration has affected their community in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and the rise of anti-immigrant sentiments in the United States and abroad.
Ruhama Lamure and Pete Anders: Ruhama Lamure chats with her mentor, Pete Anders, about her hopes for her new career, what it means to be an officer in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and how the police force can attract more women and people of color.
Fairy Diamond and Nancy Leed: Fairy Diamond speaks with friend Nancy Leed about her family and experience as a refugee to the US from Thailand. She shares memories of arriving, getting settled, and learning English. Fairy and Nancy also talk about their church and how and it has sponsored refugees.
Amer Al fayadh and Brandy Al fayadh: Amer Al Fayadh and his wife, Brandy Al fayadh, share the story of how they met and talk about their early dating before getting married. They also discuss raising multicultural kids and share their hopes for their kids as they grow up.
Amita Mehta and Michele Sipel: Friends Amita Mehta and Michele Sipel remember the first time they met and share other key moments in their friendship, such as when Amita came out to Michele. The two talk about how transformative their friendship has been for them.
Adriana Prieto Grave de Peralta and Daniel Weber: Share memories of meeting when Adriana attended Daniel's medical English class. Adriana talks about her experience as a doctor who was forced to leave her home in Cuba and go the United States. Adriana also speaks with Daniel about how she is currently attending nursing school in Pennsylvania, where they both live.