Tonight as I write to you, we are all reeling over the news of what is happening in Ukraine. We look at the photos, we try to imagine how it feels, but unless you’ve experienced this in person….well, we can only try to imagine. However we can pray, we can empathize, we can ask questions about how to help. Right now these refugees need financial support in the form of disaster relief, which is why eQuilter has been donating to several organizations who can help the children, the displaced families, and yes the pets. One of the organizations that I give to personally is SOS Children, and I know they are on the ground specifically looking to help displaced Ukrainian children. We don’t know what the next few days or weeks will bring, but we know that these families have the concern from mothers and fathers around the world who are contributing whatever they can, as we feel relatively helpless watching the TV.
700K refugees have fled Ukraine so far, and it is anticipated that 4 million refugees could cross multiple borders. It is reported tonight that a half million people are stuck in traffic, still trying to get out. One of our employees has family in Poland who are receiving refugees into their home. Families are arriving after being out in the freezing temps for several days with their children, with no food or water, and the clothes on their backs. Can you imagine?
We have quilter friends in both Ukraine and Russia, and we know that Russians are protesting in the streets. It is a sad time for both countries, and just pray that this will come to a quick and peaceful resolution to minimize further damage. If you wish to make a flag or quilt to show solidarity for Ukraine, you can see the fabrics with the colors and symbols of the country when you type “Ukraine” in our search box. I have received requests for the colors of the flag (Blue and Yellow) and for the flowers that symbolize Ukraine. (Sunflowers) We are working hard this week to keep these fabrics in stock. We will continue to donate relief funds to multiple non-profits on the ground in and around this tragedy, and we thank you for supporting our efforts.
My laptop blew up tonight – burning and coughing smoke like the self-destructing tape player intro of the old Mission Impossible TV show (do you remember the original theme song written in a 5/4 time signature with the bongo drums?) – so the list of non-profits I had prepared for you is unavailable at the moment. (My laptop’s blistering demise is kind of how I felt after watching the news the last several days.) There are plenty of sites listing ways to donate and help Ukrainians if you are so moved. I will post a list on our blog in a day or two, and will link to it in our Saturday night e-newsletter.
Go ahead and make quilts to express how you are feeling about this moment in history. There will be opportunities for displaying quilts that document our textile testimonials.
Pray for Peace, donate to help refugees, and speak out against violence and hatred every day. Together, we must speak up for Love, for Truth, and for the children of Ukraine.
…sharing your love of fabric,
Luana and Paul
Quilt/Travel Calendar:
Through Apr 9, 2022 – New England Quilt Museum (NEQM) “For the Love of Gaia” exhibit
Sat, April 9 – “International Quilt Trends” lecture – NEQM Closing Reception
August 4-6 – Long Beach Quilt Festival
October 18-24 – Luana’s Polar Bear Tour – Churchill Manitoba Canada
