In Yonkers, New York, the 30th Branch of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) Named in Honor of Lidia Krushelnytsky held a festive event marking the organization’s 100th anniversary. As part of the large-scale centennial celebration, the event — symbolically titled “Born in an Embroidered Shirt: Ukrainian Women Who Changed the World” — brought together representatives from numerous UNWLA branches across the United States, as well as members of the Yonkers and Westchester communities.
This was reported Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, New York Regional Council.
The year 2025 is a landmark one for many Ukrainian organizations in America: while Plast prepares to mark its own jubilee, the celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the UNWLA — one of the oldest and most influential Ukrainian diaspora organizations — are already underway.
The celebration in Yonkers was attended by distinguished guests, including UNWLA Honorary President Iryna Kurowyckyj (Branch 83), New York Regional Council President Oksana Zhukov (Branch 125), Elena Hofmeister, Vice President of Branch 1, Maria Lazarev, Membership Chair of the New York Regional Council, Slava Herlovska (Branch 21), Lydia Slyzh (Branch 64), Valentyna Shemchuk, Cultural Chair, Karina Tarnavska (Branch 113), Olya Savchuk, President of the New England Regional Council, and members from Branch 108 in New Haven, among many others.
The festive program was divided into two thematic parts: “Ukrainian Women Who Changed the World” and “American Women of Ukrainian Descent on the Path to Fame and Success.” Thanks to the efforts of the 30th Branch members, guests enjoyed a vivid panorama of the lives and achievements of outstanding Ukrainian women in various fields — science, culture, art, literature, civic and political life, and sports.
Adding a special charm to the evening were the talented performances of artistic ensembles and musicians. The program featured the Tarrytown School of Ukrainian Dance with energetic folk dances; the renowned Syzokryli Ukrainian Dance Ensemble as a special guest; students of the Fred Astaire Dance Studio “Hartsdale” with elegant ballroom performances; and Liubomyr Chermak, soloist of the Brattia z Prykarpattia Band, who created a heartfelt musical atmosphere. The Children’s Choir “Kraplynka”, directed by Maria Kurchak, moved the audience with their soulful renditions of Ukrainian songs.
Beyond the educational and artistic program, guests enjoyed delicious Ukrainian dishes and took part in a traditional raffle, which became a joyful conclusion to the festive evening.
For nearly a century, the women of the UNWLA have implemented thousands of charitable, cultural, and educational projects and have tirelessly advocated for Ukraine’s interests at all levels.
“We are proud of the unity of Ukrainians who have continuously supported Ukraine during this brutal war. Thanks to the diaspora’s activism, the Ukrainian issue remains in the focus of U.S. politicians, international organizations, and media. Equally important is the moral support — demonstrations, cultural events, and educational initiatives create an environment of solidarity with Ukraine,” noted the event organizers.
Photo: UNWLAmerica
Author: Inna Mikhno