Ukrainian Federation of America

Chornobyl - Through The Eyes of Tania D'Avignon - A Photographic Exhibit

Photographer Tania D'Avignon is an artist, author, journalist, and Fulbright Fellow. In 1996 she served as consultant to the National Geographic Society. She escorted journalists and visitors to the Chornobyl Dead Zone.

The works have been exhibited in major cities of Ukraine, USA, Canada, and throughout Europe. Her work has appeared in international and national publications, and various photographic anthologies.

LITERARY PRESENTATIONS

UFA Sponsored Literary Presentations

The UFA sponsors and organizes various literary presentations by esteemed Ukraninian and other authors on subjects dealing with Ukraine, it's history, culture, people, as well as topics of interest to Ukraninians and others. Literary presentations often will showcase readings by the authors, as well as discussions between the author and the audience. The literary presentations are designed to both inform, educate and connect others, as well as to entertain.

CONCERTS

Steppes

"Steppes- A Ukrainian Journey" was a creation of the Ukrainian Federation of America and the Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble. This program features vibrant and moving Ukrainian dances done by the internationally known Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble.

Music was done by the incredible violinist Vasyl Popadiuk from Canada, and his band Papa Duke. Enchanting, whimsical, and enticing music was played to everyone's enjoyment.

It was our honor announce that Ms. Ruslana Lyzhychko (Ruslana), was selected as the 2009 recipient of the Steppes To Liberty Award. This award recognizes individuals or organizations that have shown deep commitment to the betterment of Ukrainians, Ukrainian arts and culture, and the recognition of Ukrainian identity on the world stage. Nominees for this award are accepted from Ukraine and the worldwide Ukrainian Diaspora.

The STEPPES TO LIBERTY AWARD is sponsored and administered by the Ukrainian Federation of America and the Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble. The award was presented at Center City Philadelphia's Prince Music Theater on June 27th, 2009. The concert featured violinist Vasyl Popadiuk and his ensemble--Papa Duke.

Invited to the concert and reception by the Federation were those physicians who provided free medical care for Ukrainian children and those specialists, who accepted Ukrainian medical professionals for internships.

Nominating Criteria: The STEPPES TO LIBERTY AWARD honors someone who has demonstrated deep commitment to the betterment of Ukrainians, Ukrainian arts and culture, and the recognition of Ukrainian identity on the world stage. Nominees for this award are accepted from Ukraine and the worldwide Ukrainian Diaspora.

Ruslana’s victory at the Eurovision Song Contest in Istanbul in May 2004 has also become a victory for poor and disenfranchised Ukrainians. Ruslana’s talent and dedicated humanitarian work have given them voice.

Ms. Lyzhychko is heralded as a champion of humanitarian causes. She has committed herself to the fight against human trafficking and violence against women and also to defending issues of child welfare. In recognition of these efforts, UNICEF has named her Good Will Ambassador of Ukraine.

“It is the public’s duty to relieve the suffering which was inflicted on the flooded areas of Ivano-Frankivs’k and Chernivetskiy”. This was her rallying cry when she called upon other influential Ukrainians to take the lead in relief efforts. She led by example in donating her time and resources. But her efforts didn’t stop there. Ruslana also relieved the suffering by personally delivering kind words as well as direly needed goods and medical supplies to the flood’s victims. She dedicated herself to making certain a sense of dignity was returned tothe flood victims.

The three components used to evaluate candidates:

Goals: The award evaluates the excellence of the goals set and achieved by the candidate. The nature of these goals has a direct strategic and/or artistic correlation to the global cultural identity of Ukraine.

Impact: The award recognizes the level of impact individuals or organizations have made in promoting the cultural image of Ukraine. Candidates are not limited to persons of Ukrainian heritage. Nominations may include anyone who has had a profound impact on Ukrainian culture in Ukraine or abroad in the worldwide diaspora.

Challenge: The award candidate has demonstrated a deep commitment in the face of adversity or challenges. They have overcome or are continuing to face challenges and show a strong resolve to follow a morally chosen course.

For Ruslana’s visionary care for the country and people of Ukraine, its language, art and culture… Ruslana was the recipient of the 2009 Steppes To Liberty Award.