Photo: Head office of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America. New York, USA. Photo by Orysya Soroka.
Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) is the biggest and oldest Ukrainian women’s organization in the USA. Founded in 1925 in New York City, it was established as an association of Ukrainian immigrant women aimed at preserving national identity and cultural heritage, as well as supporting Ukrainians in Ukraine and the diaspora.
The idea of creating a united organization arose after Ukrainian delegates Hanna Chykalenko-Keller, Olena Lototska and Yulia Yarema participated in the International Congress of Women. The main areas of UNWLA’s work include cultural and educational initiatives (organizing exhibitions and concerts, supporting museums and libraries), humanitarian aid (fundraising, assistance to displaced persons and orphans), and advocacy for Ukraine’s interests on the international stage.
An important area of UNWLA’s activity is raising awareness about historical events through exhibitions and educational programs. As of 2024, UNWLA unites over 1,700 members across 14 U.S. states and 63 branches, continuing its mission of preserving Ukrainian identity, supporting the community, and assisting Ukraine in difficult times.
The current president is Natalie Pawlenko.
