Polish Women's Alliance of America

Overview

The Polish Women's Alliance of America (PWAA), also known as Związek Polek w Ameryce, is a fraternal benefit society that was founded on May 22, 1898, in Chicago, Illinois. It was established by Stefania Chmielinska, with the mission to provide financial security to its members and preserve Polish culture and heritage.

History

The PWAA was a pioneering organization founded at a time when women in the United States did not have the right to vote and were excluded from most professions and institutions of higher learning. The founders aimed to address issues such as equality for women, access to higher education, and the ability for women to purchase life insurance in their own names.

The organization grew rapidly, attracting thousands of members across the nation. By the 1960s, it had peaked at 100,000 members, making it one of the largest and oldest women's organizations in the United States. Today, it continues to serve as a major force in the Polish-American community, supporting cultural events, charitable causes, and educational initiatives.

Activities

The PWAA is involved in various activities that promote Polish heritage and support community development. It sponsors Polish-language, literature, folklore, history, and folk dance lessons, festivals, and youth conferences. The organization also supports religious, hospital, and children's institutions in Poland, including a school for the blind in Laski.

During World War II, the PWAA played a significant role in humanitarian relief efforts for Poland and helped establish the Polish American Congress in 1944. Other notable contributions include supporting the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island and fostering ties with institutions such as the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center.

Structure and Legacy

The organization is structured into local units called "Groups" and regional organizations known as "Councils." Over 600,000 women have been members of the PWAA throughout its history, making it a powerful voice for Polish-American women in the United States.

In 2017, the PWAA merged with FCSLA Life, continuing to offer life insurance plans, annuities, and other financial products to its members. The organization remains dedicated to promoting Polish culture, supporting charitable causes, and advocating for Polish-American issues.

Archives

The Polish Women's Alliance of America's records are archived at Loyola University Chicago's Women & Leadership Archives and the Newberry Library. These archives provide valuable insights into the organization's history and its contributions to Polish-American society between 1900 and 2006. The records include meeting minutes, pamphlets, newspapers such as Głos Polek (The Polish Women's Voice), and other documents that highlight the organization's cultural, economic, and social impact.

References

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