AcTIVIST SPOTLIGHT

Quilting for Conservation

What’s the hottest new thing in activism? Quilting, of course.

According to award-winning textile artist Kathy McNeil, quilters have always been activists in their communities — and McNeil has always been an animal lover. Recently, she fell in love with the polar bear, immersed herself in information about the animal, and was devastated to learn about its peril in the face of global warming. She painstakingly created her beautiful quilt “Last Dance in the Arctic” in the hopes that the image would touch people’s hearts and get them to help. Thousands of quilt-show attendees will admire the quilt this year — and the Center already has.

“I challenge you all to make quilts that reach out to comfort and protect Mother Earth,” declares McNeil. “Let’s ROAR!”

Thanks, Kathy, for your time, skill, and enthusiasm for protecting the natural world.

Learn more about Kathy McNeil on her Web site.

Want to share your story in our Activist Spotlight?
A sea change can begin with second graders — or maybe, it can begin with you. If you or someone you know has found a creative way to turn concern for the planet — and for endangered plants and animals — into change for the better, we'd like to share your story with the world. Send us your spotlight idea here.

And check out other activists we've honored here.