[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 66 (Wednesday, May 12, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E817]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATING POLAND'S CONSTITUTION DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 11, 2004

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise, on 
behalf of 111,000 of my constituents who are of Polish descent, to 
recognize the anniversary of the ratification of Poland's Constitution 
on May 3rd. We remember the men and women who first penned their 
historic constitution 219 years ago. We have another reason to 
celebrate as this year's anniversary will be the first since Poland has 
joined nine of its neighbors in achieving membership in the European 
Union.
  In many ways, the foundation of Poland's constitution parallels our 
own, written only four years later. Following our model, the Polish 
Constitution of 1791 establishes three equal branches of government--a 
Legislative, an Executive, and a Judiciary Branch. It also promotes the 
philosophies of liberty, democracy, and religious freedom for all 
people. The constitution remains a landmark document that inspired 
generations of Poles through the turbulence of the eighteenth century, 
both World Wars and communist rule. Its longevity and survival 
exemplifies the strong democratic tradition and values of the Polish 
people.
  Polish immigrants have imported these same traditions and values into 
the United States. Throughout our own history, Polish-American citizens 
have contributed to local communities. In the 5th district, from the 
lakefront to the western suburbs, the Polish-American community shares 
a leading role in business, fine arts, charity and many other forms of 
public service. The Polish-American influence has shaped the city of 
Chicago and our nation into the strong and vibrant communities they are 
today.
  Mr. Speaker, Poland has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the United 
States and its friendship has never wavered through the tumultuous 
events in our own history. Now is the time when we must return the 
favor by contributing to Poland's prosperity and security as it enters 
a new era as a full and respected member of the EU.
  Poland's loyalty to the U.S. and its generous commitment of resources 
and manpower throughout the global war on terror and in the wars in 
Afghanistan and Iraq will never be forgotten by our grateful nation. 
Poland has repeatedly proven itself a steadfast ally from the 
beginning, sending more than 1,700 troops and special forces, second 
only to Great Britain, to help with Operation Iraqi Freedom and the 
reconstruction efforts.
  Still, our Polish friends visiting their families in the United 
States are treated differently than other allies. Despite its proven 
loyalty and contributions to our security, Poles must still apply and 
pay for visas to enter the United States. That is why I have introduced 
H. Res. 601 in response to this discrepancy. My resolution calls upon 
the State Department to include Poland in the Visa Waiver Program. What 
better way to celebrate Poland's anniversary than to grant this waiver.
  Mr. Speaker, the Polish Constitution is a symbol of pride and 
strength for Polish citizens throughout the world. I look forward to 
working with my colleagues and in support of Poland's efforts to 
flourish as an integral partner of the global economy and coalition 
against terror. Together we can continue to achieve the same principles 
of freedom and democracy that both our constitutions set forth over two 
centuries ago.

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