Polish Women's Alliance of America

The Polish Women's Alliance of America (PWAA), known in Polish as Związek Polek w Ameryce, is a fraternal benefit society founded on May 22, 1898, in Chicago, Illinois. It was established by Stefania Chmielinska, a Polish immigrant who worked as a seamstress in Chicago. Chmielinska was a vocal advocate for women's equality and played a significant role in promoting this cause. Her vision was to create an organization that would encourage self-sufficiency and provide financial stability for immigrant women, which was innovative for the time period.

Mission and Impact

The PWAA's mission is to provide financial security to its members while preserving Polish culture and heritage. It was one of the first organizations created by women for women, offering life insurance, emergency aid, and social and educational benefits. This was crucial at a time when women were excluded from leadership roles in fraternal organizations and could not purchase life insurance policies in their own names.

Historical Activities

• Cultural Preservation: The organization has sponsored numerous cultural events, including Polish language, literature, folklore, history, and folkdance lessons, festivals, and youth conferences. It also supports religious, hospital, and children's institutions in Poland.
• Historical Contributions: It was involved in significant events like funding radium experiments for Madame Maria Skłodowska Curie, contributing to the World War II effort with a bomber for the US Air Force, founding the Polish American Congress in 1944, and supporting restoration projects for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
• Support for Polish Institutions: The PWAA supports institutions like the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in Washington D.C.

Structure

Local units of the PWAA are called "Groups," while regional organizations are known as "Councils." The headquarters is located in Park Ridge, Illinois.

Growth and Membership

Initially, the organization experienced rapid growth, reaching 7,000 members within a decade of its founding and 26,000 members by the end of its first quarter-century. Membership peaked at 100,000 in the 1960s and currently stands at approximately 30,000 members, making it one of the largest Polish women's organizations globally.

Merger and Current Activities

In 2017, the PWAA merged with FCSLA Life, continuing to offer life insurance plans, annuities, and other financial products. It also supports charitable institutions, promotes Polish culture, offers college scholarships, and provides opportunities for educational and social activities for its members.

Legacy

Throughout its existence, the Polish Women's Alliance of America has been a major force within the Polish-American community, fostering leadership among women and advocating for Polish causes. Its activities have played a significant role in preserving Polish heritage and supporting both domestic and international charitable endeavors.