It was a pleasure to host an evening with Volodymyr Rafeyenko, Mark Andryczyk, and Irena Chalupa. Throughout the event, we explored the importance of promoting and translating Ukrainian literature here in the U.S., diving into Rafeyenko’s latest works now available in English: Signals of Being, Mondegreen: Songs about Death and Love, and the forthcoming Petrichor: The Scent of the Earth After Rain.

Author Volodymyr Rafeyenko shared his experience of the russian full-scale invasion, drawing parallels to the events of 2014. Today, he continues to reflect on the war through his novels and poems, while speaking warmly of the community that has welcomed him and his family here in the US. He also highlighted his 2014 transition to the Ukrainian language, explaining how it allowed him to write and rethink Ukrainian language.

Translator Mark Andryczyk shared his own journey of exploring Ukrainian culture and language. He discussed how the process of translation helped shape his mindset and allowed him to relive and honor Volodymyr’s unique experiences.

Our sincere thanks go to Oksana Markarova, Chairwoman of our Advisory Board and the Advisor of the President of Ukraine on Reconstruction and Investment, for her opening remarks, and to Irena Chalupa, President of the Washington, DC branch of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, for her excellent moderation.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this evening of storytelling, translation, and deep reflection on the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit.