[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 5]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 7106-7107]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR OF POLISH CONSTITUTION DAY, 2010

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 4, 2010

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Polish 
American Congress, Ohio Division and of Polish Constitution Day, which 
is celebrated this year on May 2, 2010. Polish Constitution Day is a 
time for Poles to honor the struggles, sacrifices and victories of 
their ancestors. It is a day when people of all cultures join with the 
Polish community to celebrate the rich culture, traditions and history 
of Poland.
  After almost five centuries of struggle and perseverance, the 
Governmental Statute of Poland became the first written constitution in 
Europe on May 3, 1791. An important document in the history of 
democracy, the Polish Constitution established the separation of 
government powers, freedom of religion, and abolished key elements of 
serfdom.
  Formed in 1949, the Polish American Congress is a national umbrella 
organization representing over ten million Polish-Americans. It serves 
as a unifying force for both Polish-Americans and Polish citizens 
living in America. Additionally, the Polish American Congress has 
helped integrate Poles into the United States with programs like the 
Displaced Persons Program, which allowed almost 150,000 Polish 
immigrants to enter the U.S. after World War II.
  The Polish-American community in Cleveland is deeply rooted in its 
commitment to the values of family, faith, democracy and hard work. As 
in years past, the Greater Cleveland community will join in celebration 
of Poland's rich history and culture by attending events such as the 
Polonia Ball, the Grand Parade and the Photographic Exhibition.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor of the Polish 
American Congress as they celebrate Polish Constitution Day. Their 
dedication to preserving and promoting their heritage, history and 
culture with Greater Cleveland serves to enrich and illuminate the 
brilliant and diverse fabric of our entire community.

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