[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 161 (Friday, October 3, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2236]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     POLISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 3, 2008

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, this month I proudly join the thousands 
of Polish Americans living in Chicago in a celebration of Polish 
history, culture, and pride during Polish American Heritage Month.
  This year, Polish Americans celebrate the 400th anniversary of the 
arrival of the first Poles to America's first settlement in Jamestown, 
Virginia. The first five Polish settlers traveled to Jamestown aboard 
the English ship, the Mary and Margaret, at the invitation of Captain 
John Smith and the London Company. They arrived on October 1, 1608 and 
distinguished themselves as America's first tradesmen. Poles, alongside 
other ethnic groups, were among the pioneers who helped to establish 
this country as the land of hope and opportunity. Their work ethic 
helped create the foundations of modern America.
  The celebration of this milestone coincides with another important 
historical landmark: the 90th anniversary of the reinstatement of 
Polish independence. In 1918, after 123 years of occupation and 
generations of struggle by the Polish people, Poland reappeared on the 
map of Europe after World War I.
  The United States is grateful to Poland for its friendship and 
commitment to the democratic ideals of liberty and human rights. Poland 
is a strong ally of the United States, and I am dedicated to continuing 
the strong record of cultural and economic ties between our two 
nations.
  My hometown of Chicago has a thriving and active Polish American 
community. Madam Speaker, I am honored to join the citizens of my 
district, as well as those of Polish descent around the country in 
recognizing, remembering, and celebrating Polish American Heritage 
Month.

                          ____________________