WHEREAS, Sheilah J. Robinson, a devoted champion for African Americans and other people of color with HIV/AIDS and for women's empowerment, passed away December 26, 2003, at age 57; and
     WHEREAS, She was the first staff member of the People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN), the major organization founded in 1987 in the Seattle area assisting African Americans and underserved populations with HIV/AIDS; and
     WHEREAS, The compassionate nature and warm humor of this stalwart worker furthered the mission of POCAAN to respond to the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on communities of color through education, prevention programs, and strategies to remove barriers created by sexism, racism, and homophobia; and
     WHEREAS, She founded the "Sistah 2 Sistah" support group for African American lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women in Seattle; and
     WHEREAS, In her role as a tireless community advocate, Ms. Robinson coordinated a POCAAN food drive that delivered gift baskets to more than 1,000 families living with HIV/AIDS; and
     WHEREAS, Her strong convictions and belief in human rights led her to speak out for building a multicultural women's movement for justice and peace; and
     WHEREAS, This dedicated community activist developed the "Girlfriends Talking" program to reach out to disenfranchised women and provide support and advice through a newsletter and her "Dear Sheilah" column; and
     WHEREAS, Numerous organizations and groups sought out Ms. Robinson to speak about her life's journey and challenges as an inspiration for people who heard her; and
     WHEREAS, Ms. Robinson's work with people of color with HIV/AIDS enhanced and complemented the work of countless groups and individuals, who will sorely miss her;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the State of Washington celebrate the life, the work, and the compassion of Sheilah J. Robinson; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the family of Sheilah Robinson and to the People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN).