Threads of Unity: The UNWLA Members-at-Large Quilt Honors a Century of Sisterhood

Written by Lisa McDonald, Member-at-Large, Wyoming

One of the most heartfelt moments at the UNWLA Centennial Celebration in New York City on October 19, 2025, was the unveiling of the Threads of Unity Quilt — a colorful creation made by Ukrainian women from across the United States.

The quilt was a project sponsored by the UNWLA Members-at-Large (MAL), women who belong to the League but are not part of a local branch. These members wanted to find a way to take part in the 100th Anniversary Celebration and show their pride in Ukrainian heritage. MAL Lisa McDonald of Casper, Wyoming, initiated and chaired this important quilt project and Stephanie Richard, a quilter from Ohio, sewed all the pieces together with a sunflower pattern. Every UNWLA member was invited to send in an 8-inch square of Ukrainian embroidery, weaving, or fabric art.

Each square was different but shared a common purpose — to celebrate Ukrainian traditions and the UNWLA’s long history of sisterhood. When the finished quilt was displayed at the Centennial, it drew immediate admiration. Bright red-and-black cross-stitch patterns, soft woven bands, and hand-painted designs filled the room with color and memory. In the center, a bold UNWLA logo stitched on blue-and-yellow fabric reminded everyone of the organization’s lasting mission to serve Ukraine and the Ukrainian-American community.

Some women used fabric that had been passed down through their families. Others embroidered designs from their ancestral regions, or created something entirely new inspired by folk art. Every piece told a story — a small window into a member’s history, creativity, and love for Ukraine.

“The idea was to let every member, no matter where she lives, be part of our Centennial,” said McDonald. “This quilt shows how art can bring people together, even when they are far apart.”

As members gathered around the quilt at the celebration, many were moved to tears. “It’s more than fabric,” one woman said. “It’s our story — stitched with care and love.”

This quilt project took 10 months to gather embroidery and other fiber art pieces from members of the UNWLA to assemble into a quilt. Quilter Stephanie Richard, of Creative Threads, put all 101 pieces together into this amazing historical piece of art. The great-great-granddaughter of Ukrainian immigrants to the US, said she was honored to bring this quilt to life.

The Members-at-Large Quilt will now become part of the UNWLA Centennial Collection, traveling to future exhibits and regional events. Every square on the quilt represents the hands and hearts that created it — a symbol of unity, creativity, and a hundred years of dedication to community and culture.