[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 59 (Wednesday, April 28, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E793]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO POLISH-AMERICANS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK FOLEY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 28, 1999

  Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, as we approach May 3, the 208th anniversary 
of the adoption of the first Polish constitution, I rise today to pay 
tribute to Polish people around the world.
  This is an important anniversary to note because few people realize 
that the Polish constitution of 1791 was the first liberal constitution 
in Europe. Although the constitution was in effect for less than two 
years, its principles, such as individual and religious freedom, 
remained embedded in the national consciousness through two centuries 
of foreign occupation and intimidation. As a result, after years of 
forced totalitarianism the people of Poland have miraculously 
transformed their country into a modern, progressive State in less than 
a decade.
  I am glad that Poland is now a full partner in the North Atlantic 
Treaty Organization--NATO. As the Polish people know full-well, freedom 
isn't free. It is heartening to know that those who suffered so long 
under oppression are now willing to share in the burden of preserving 
freedom.
  So Mr. Speaker, once again, I want to extend my heartfelt 
congratulations to the people of Poland and their descendants around 
the world on this historic anniversary.

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