[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 147 (Tuesday, October 13, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO THE POLISH PEOPLES HOME

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 2009

  Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I would like to call to your attention 
the work of an institution, The Polish Peoples Home-Polish American 
Cultural Center, that is celebrating its 100th Anniversary of dedicated 
service and support to the Polish Community of Passaic, New Jersey and 
the surrounding area.
  It is only fitting that The Polish Peoples Home be honored in this, 
the permanent record of the greatest democracy ever known, for the 
cultural home has provided friendship and guidance to Polish-American 
families, especially those just embarking on their American dream. Its 
dedication to the entire community, however, is what keeps this deeply-
rooted institution growing towards the future.
  The history of Polish people in Passaic is rich and complex. During 
the first decade of the Twentieth Century, New Jersey had become a 
magnet for migration. There was a demand for labor and the 
opportunities brought thousands of immigrants to New Jersey's 
burgeoning industrial centers. Polish immigrants were one of the many 
groups who struggled to create new lives for themselves here in 
America. They brought with them customs and culture they wanted to 
preserve and maintain as a link to the lives they left in Poland.
  On October 9, 1909 fifteen of these hardworking Polish immigrants 
formed a corporation called ``Polish Peoples Home.'' The object of this 
corporation was to establish and sustain a home for all Polish 
societies in the City of Passaic and the surrounding areas. One hundred 
years later it continues to preserve and enhance the Polish heritage of 
the past while providing immeasurable lasting contributions to 
America's present.
  The Polish Peoples Home of Passaic has served as a haven for Polish 
immigrants and the Polish-American community, combining their 
recreational, cultural, social and educational endeavors. By promoting 
the beauty and richness of their Polish heritage, they honor the 
lasting impression made by Polish-Americans in the arts, sciences, 
industry and agriculture.
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to learning about and recognizing the 
efforts of wonderful, thriving community institutions such as The 
Polish Peoples Home.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you join the members and Board of The 
Polish Peoples Home, all whose lives have been culturally enriched 
throughout the years and me in recognizing the outstanding 
contributions of The Polish Peoples Home to the Polish-American 
community and beyond.

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