The "CEPA Honors 2026" ceremony, organized by the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA), took place in Washington, D.C. This year, the event recognized the contributions of Ukrainian artists; the premier Ukrainian honor, the "Freedom Fighter Award," was presented to director and documentarian Mstyslav Chernov—creator of the films 20 Days in Mariupol and 2000 Meters to Andriivka—for his "exceptional commitment to freedom in the face of authoritarianism."
This was reported by Embassy of Ukraine in the USA.
A special feature of the ceremony was an installation of Ukrainian motanka dolls, presented with the support of the Embassy of Ukraine in the USA. The traditional motanka is a Ukrainian protective doll passed down through generations from mother to daughter as a symbol of protection, health, and well-being.
In the contemporary work of Ukrainian-American artist Ola Rondiak, this traditional image has taken on a new artistic dimension. Her motanka dolls are crafted from wood and metal, symbolizing the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the capacity of culture to preserve historical memory, identity, and traditions even amidst war.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the Center for European Policy Analysis for hosting the ceremony—which brought together representatives from political, governmental, business, and expert circles—and for supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom and the defense of the democratic world.
This year’s CEPA Honors recipients included Finnish President Alexander Stubb and Ericsson President and CEO Börje Ekholm, who were recognized with the "Global Impact Award." Jim Berlin, founder and chairman of Logistics Plus, received the "Lifetime Achievement Award," while Ukrainian filmmaker Mstyslav Chernov was honored with the "Freedom Fighter Award."
The ceremony served as yet another example of showcasing Ukrainian culture and contemporary art on the international stage, blending traditional Ukrainian symbols with the story of Ukrainian society’s resilience and its fight for freedom.
Photo: Embassy of Ukraine in the USA
Author: Inna Mikhno