About Us
The Rocky Mountain Wa Shonaji Quilt Guild was formed in February 1994 by Helen Kearney.
The five African American women who came together were interested in perpetuating the heritage of quilting and promoting fellowship among those in quilting.
The Guild is committed to supporting and educating the community. To this end, the Guild offers exhibits, quilting classes, lectures and quilt documentation through its various programs during the year.
The name Wa Shonaji comes from the Swahili language and means literally – “people who sew”. The Guild’s name reflects both our region of the United States and our cultural heritage.
The members of RMWSQG, though predominantly of African-American ancestry, celebrate ethnic diversity in membership as well as in the many different patterns displayed in their quilts.
The Early Days
The objective of the Guild is to embody a viable, professional organization representing an interest in quilt making and other fiber arts primarily from an African-American perspective.
We both educate ourselves and share our knowledge in the art of quilt making and other fiber arts by promoting the theme “Each One Teach One”.
We seek to promote the work and accomplishments of our members and to preserve the tradition, culture and history of quilting.
We enjoy, rather than judge each other’s work.
2024 Officers:
President:
Joette Bailey-Keown
VP Programs:
Linda White
VP Membership:
Deborah Sweatt
Secretary:
Karen von Phul
Treasurer:
Geneva Lottie
Historian
Brenda Ames
Librarian:
Connie Turner
Newsletter Editor:
Julie Marsh
Exhibits Coordinator:
Joanne Walton
Past President:
Marcia Walker
2023 Committee Chairs:
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