[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 7]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 9064]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF POLISH CONSTITUTION DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 22, 2006

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Polish 
American Congress, Ohio Division, as they celebrate Polish Constitution 
Day--sharing their cultural gifts along a parade route lined with food, 
song and joyous celebration.
  The first written European constitution, the Governmental Statute of 
Poland, was instated on May 8, 1791. 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 also to create 
facets and an institution of government vital to the foundation of a 
constitutional government. The Polish American Congress was formed in 
1949, and continues to serve as a significant bond of Polish culture, 
heritage and history in Cleveland and across the country. The group 
serves as a unifying force for both Polish Americans and Polish 
citizens living in America. Taking a positive stand on issues 
concerning the people of Poland, the group strives to attain a free 
market economy within the framework of a democratic society.
  The goal of the Polish American Congress is to make Americans of 
Polish heritage more successful U.S. citizens by encouraging them to 
assume the responsibilities of citizenship. In addition, the group 
supports fraternal, professional, religious, and civic associations 
dedicated to the improvement of the status of all Americans of Polish 
heritage. 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 beyond.
  Mr. 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 
protect the heritage, history and culture of their beloved Polish 
homeland--providing awareness and connection to every new generation 
born in America, and enriching the diverse fabric of our entire 
Cleveland community.

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