This year’s theme, From the Strength of Women, celebrates the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which secured the right to vote for most women in the United States.

This event also serves as the major fundraising event of the year for this keystone Ukiah Valley–and greater Mendocino County–institution. Donations will enable the Museum to present more virtual (and even in-person, socially distanced walks in the Wild Gardens) events this fall, and to prepare for the time when its doors can reopen.

This 2020 gala celebrates six stellar women who made possible the idea, creation, and growth of the Grace Hudson Museum: Grace Carpenter Hudson herself; Clarina Nichols, Grace’s paternal grandmother; Helen McCowen Carpenter, Grace’s mother; Barbara Eversole, who led fundraising efforts to build the Museum and shape its long-term vision; Sherrie Smith-Ferri, the Museum’s influential director for over 20 years; and Karen Holmes, who has served superlatively for 20 years as a curator, registrar, and designer. The program will also feature a poem written and read for the occasion by Theresa Whitehill, a former Ukiah poet laureate; a short video about the making of the Museum’s recent exhibit, The World of Frida, followed by a chat with Karen Holmes, who designed it for the space; the talented Joni McLeod, performing three songs portraying the strength of women; and a conversation with Pomo basketweaver Corine Pearce about her art and the value of the Museum’s Wild Gardens.

Throughout the event, there will be an appeal for donations. Museum Director David Burton comments, “Early in this year’s Gala planning, we made a conscious decision to forego live and silent auctions. Because of the devastating effect the pandemic has had on our regional business community, asking anyone to donate products or experiences just didn’t feel right… Please know that your generosity is vital to us as we plan and create virtual programming for the short term, and exhibitions and in-person programs beyond that.”

The public will be able to make donations by phone or online during the livestream. They can also go online to www.gracehudsonmuseum.org and click the yellow button on the top right. The livestreaming event is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2W3mtVQN7s&feature=youtu.be