The news today is filled with remembrances of what happened
25 years ago; it shook us all. The good folks in Newfoundland sprang to action, but I
remember watching the news and feeling so helpless. Within days, as with other disasters, quilters
were called upon to contribute to a fund-raising auction. The deadline was very
short so I quickly stitched this piece and sent it off. I was doubtful it would be accepted. My artist’s statement read as follows:
“E Pluribus Unity: 16” x 13”.
The title of this little quilt tailors the motto of the United States (e
pluribus Unum) to reflect the world’s response to the terrorist attacks of September
11, 2001. Geographically and
historically, Canada and the United States have always been close. Many of our
sons and daughters died in this attack. We join with other countries around the
world in pledging our support against terrorism. In e pluribus Unity the flags
of our countries are arranged to form a heart; the rising sun peeking up behind
the two flags is quilted with a thread which glows in the dark. Even when things seem dark, unity from many
gives strength and hope for a better tomorrow.”
Quilts poured in from around the world and they were
exhibited at International Quilt Festival in Houston where a silent auction was
held. At the end of the show they had
raised over $25,000 for the families. The organizer of the event, Karey
Bresenhan, wrote to tell me that my little quilt, by far the smallest of the
over 300 entries, had raised the third highest amount in the auction. Later a
book entitled "America From The Heart" showing all the quilts was released by C & T Publishing with profits
also going to the families. “E Pluribus Unity” shared space with
Carol Bryer Fallert and Kaffe Fasset (who signed my book by his quilt when he
visited Amherst in 2014.) Although in today’s climate it’s extremely doubtful I
would ever make such a quilt again, I do still have hope for a better tomorrow.
