[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 71 (Thursday, May 1, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E808]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF POLISH CONSTITUTION DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 1, 2008

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Polish 
American Congress, Ohio Division, as they celebrate Polish Constitution 
Day--a day where the Polish Community shares their rich culture with 
the Greater Cleveland Community.
  The first written European constitution, the Governmental Statute of 
Poland, was instated on May 3, 1971. Poland's Constitution was the 
result of nearly five centuries of struggle and perseverance by the 
people of Poland to diminish the power of the King and to create facets 
and institutions of government vital to the foundation of a 
constitutional government. Formed in 1949, the Polish American Congress 
is a national umbrella organization representing over ten million 
Americans of Polish descent and origin, and serves as a unifying force 
for both Polish Americans and Polish citizens living in America. 
Cleveland's Polish American community is deeply rooted and prides 
itself on their commitment to the values of family, faith, democracy, 
hard work and fulfillment of the American dream.
  The Polish American Congress strives to make Americans of Polish 
heritage more successful and involved U.S. citizens by encouraging them 
to assume the responsibilities of leadership. Since its foundation over 
sixty years ago, the group has created programs to successfully 
integrate people of Polish decent in the U.S. and enrich Cleveland's 
social fabric. These programs include the Displaced Persons Program, 
which allowed almost 150,000 Polish immigrants to enter the U.S. after 
World War Two. The group also won American veterans benefits for Polish 
Veterans of both World War One and World War Two.
  The Polish American Congress has played a crucial role in the Polish 
Community, and in its many years of support and service has been an 
invaluable contribution to the City of Cleveland and this nation. This 
year, the Greater Cleveland Community can celebrate Poland's rich 
history and culture by joining Cleveland's Polish community in 
attending events such as the Polonia Ball, the Grand Parade and the 
Photographic Exhibition.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration 
of the leaders and members of the Polish American Congress, as they 
celebrate Polish Constitution Day and as they continue to promote and 
share their heritage, history and culture with the Greater Cleveland 
community.

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