US award for Jesuit priest-activist from Gujarat

Well known activist and Jesuit priest Fr Cedric Prakash was honored with an award by the City of Harvey in Illinois, US.

Fr Prakash was presented with the 'Outstanding Achievement Award' by Mayor Eric Kellogg in recognition to his contributions made to the field of justice and interfaith harmony.

"I feel truly humbled by this award from the City of Harvey. This award is also a reminder that none of us should be quiet until the cause of justice has been met," said Fr Prakash.

Speaking at a special ceremony held at the City Council Chamber, Mayor Kellogg recalled Prakash's efforts in the struggle for justice in the aftermath of the Gujarat pogrom in 2002 that killed 2,000 people and displaced over 150,000.

"Fr Prakash has worked tirelessly to build bridges among various groups, and to secure justice and rehabilitation for the survivors. He has also been vocal in highlighting the ongoing plight of minorities in Gujarat and other parts of India," said Mayor Kellogg.

"Fr Prakash's work in the field of humanitarian advocacy predates the tragic events in Gujarat. He has worked ceaselessly to bring about religious harmony in the diverse religious landscape of India. This cause, for which he has worked selflessly for several decades, has been recognized in India and abroad," he added.

Fr Prakash is the Director of 'Prashant', an Ahmedabad-based Jesuit centre for human rights, justice and peace. His organisation has been at the forefront of the struggle to secure justice for the victims of the 2002 Gujarat riots.