BBLA Award for Unparalleled Service to the Czech and Slovak Communities

The Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association Award for Unparalleled Service to the Czech and Slovak Communities was established in 2018 on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the foundation of Czechoslovakia. With the award, BBLA wishes to recognize individuals who through their work have contributed to bettering the awareness of Czech and Slovak culture, history and achievements internationally. The award stresses BBLA’s commitment to the importance and enhancement of Czech, Slovak and American relations. The recipient of the inaugural award was Madeleine Albright, the 64th United States Secretary of State and a Czech native.

The tricolored blue-white-red glass cube designed by Czech glass artist Zdenek Lhotsky – represents the joint colors of the American, Czech and Slovak flags. Zdenek Lhotsky is one of the most prominent contemporary artists who has continued in the special tradition of Czech glassmaking. He has appeared in more than 250 exhibitions in Europe, USA and Asia, and received numerous prizes, such as the German-Bavarian State Award for Design. Since 1994 he has been the owner and art director of the studio for kiln cast glass sculpture Lhotsky s.r.o. Zelezny Brod, the Czech Republic.

The award is presented in New York City at the Annual Gala organized together with the Vaclav Havel Center (former Vaclav Havel Library Foundation) at the Bohemian National Hall. The event is attended by Czech and Slovak diplomats, members of Czech and Slovak communities, and guests interested in fostering Euro-American social and cultural connections.

Awardees

2024
MARTINA NAVRATILOVA

Martina did not just excel in her sport, she redefined it. Her achievements on the court are legendary but it is her character off the court that truly defines her as a role model. With her warm personality and keen intelligence, she has become an icon not only for her athletic prowess but also for her advocacy and outspoken stance on issues of equality and human rights.

2022
PETER SIS

Peter has been promoting the Czech culture and history, the tradition of illustration as well as contributing his work, time, talent and energy to advocating for human rights through the arts. His beautiful books bring joy and introduce important life stories to young as well as adult readers around the world.

2021
Sir tom stoppard

Sir Stoppard supported Czech and Slovak dissidents during the harsh times of the 1970s and 1980s. We honor his friendship with Vaclav Havel and his unprecedented volume of inspiring and absolutely unique plays, especially his play “Rock ‘n’ Roll” which revolves around the history of the Czech underground and the importance of music and art in both oppressive regimes and the free world.