Recognizing October 2021 as the 40th Annual Polish American Heritage Month in the City of Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, Since 1608, when the first Polish settlers arrived at Jamestown, VA, polish people have been an integral part of America’s history and culture; and

WHEREAS, The largest wave of Polish immigration occurred from 1870-1920, with an estimated 1.5 million immigrants arriving to the United States in search of better economic opportunities. Millions more came to the United States in subsequent decades following World War II and the fall of Communism; and

WHEREAS, Today, there are roughly 20 million Americans of full or partial Polish descent. Polish Americans account for nearly seven percent of the population in Pennsylvania, and the City of Philadelphia is home to a vibrant Polish American community dating back to the late nineteenth century; and

WHEREAS, During the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, a mini-port of entry, similar to Ellis Island in New York, was located at Delaware and Washington Avenues in South Philadelphia. This port of entry welcomed immigrants from Poland, Italy, Germany, Lithuania, Ireland and other countries; and

WHEREAS, As time passed, the new Polish American communities spanned the waterfront from South Philadelphia to the Northeast section of Philadelphia. They established themselves as a reliable and industrious workforce, especially in waterfront, railroad and manufacturing enterprises, and began to form thriving neighborhoods with

churches, schools, and cultural organizations to preserve the heritage of their homeland for their descendants; and

WHEREAS, Polish Americans have made - and continue to make - invaluable contributions to our Nation in fields of academia, music, art, politics, engineering, communications, medicine, and all other professional and creative endeavors; and

WHEREAS, In a 1986 proclamation recognizing Polish American Heritage Month, President Ronald Reagan said: “We are, as a country, linked with the Polish people in love for individual liberty, faith, and defense of the family. We share unstinting devotion to political and religious freedom, as expressed so courageously by Pope John Paul II and Lech Walesa.”; and

WHEREAS, 2021 marks the 40th Anniversary of the founding of Polish American Heritage Month, an event which began in Philadelphia and became a national celebration of Polish history, culture and pride; and

WHEREAS, During this month of recognition, all Philadelphians are encouraged to celebrate and reflect on the rich culture and contributions of Polish Americans; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes October 2021 as the 40th Annual Polish American Heritage Month in the City of Philadelphia.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy by presented to the Polish American Cultural Center, further evidencing the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.

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