April 2020 for Poles Who Saved Jews Pg

pac vice-president bajdek and the kościuszko mound in kraków Pg. 2 ■ pac – new jersey division initiative Pg. 4 ■ 80th anniversary of katyn Pg. 5 ■ resolution: commemorating the 80th anniversary of the katyn massacre Pg. 6 ■ revisiting a previous newsletter story Pg. 8 ■ righteous among the nations medals April 2020 for poles who saved jews Pg. 9 ■ the 2020 census Pg. 10 ■ pac mission statement committee Pg. 10 ■ national remembrance day mass Pg. 11 ■ letter from president of the republic of poland Pg. 12 ■ the music of chopin – 16th annual concert Pg. 14 ■ will lockdown slow pandemic spread? Pg. 15 ■ poland’s world-class composer passes away Pg. 16 ■ from the bookshelf Pg. 17 Polish American Congress Volume 7, Number 2 Your in America!Voice

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Future PAC Newsletters will be sent out:

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Friday, June 5, 2020 Friday, June 12, 2020 Friday, August 7, 2020 Friday, August 14, 2020 Friday, October 4, 2020 Friday, October 11, 2020 Friday, December 6, 2020 Friday, December 13, 2020

“Your Voice in America” is a bimonthly newsletter published by the Polish American Congress. The purpose of the Dear Directors and Members of the Polish American Congress, newsletter is to offer PAC National Directors and PAC Executive Committee members the opportunity to share I hope this newsletter finds you healthy in these uncertain times. news and information about their state divisions and offices. Every day, we are learning of new developments surrounding The newsletter does not receive funds from any external COVID-19. I understand that at times the amount of information source. The editor is Dr. Mark Pienkos. can be overwhelming. My hope is that you, your family, and friends are safe and feeling well. Our Executive Officers are Articles should be between 100 and 400 words. Some editing will all well. Ms. Wisniewska of our Washington Office and Mr. be done to match our style guidelines and spatial constraints, Czop are working remotely from their homes. Our primary concern is the as well as correcting grammatical errors. We do not send proofs for approval. When sending photos, please include safety of our staff and individuals visiting the offices. captions with names, official titles. All submitted materials Unfortunately, one of our Directors, a longtime member of the Illinois Division, become the property of the Polish American Congress and may be used to promote the mission of the PAC. Materials Mr. Andrzej Gedlek, was recently hospitalized on a ventilator and heart machine will not be returned unless requested. due to the coronavirus. I am sad to report that Mr. Gedlek passed away. Prayers go out to the Gedlek Family. Peace. Also, let’s keep in our prayers the many Articles are due according to this schedule. Send your individuals that are suffering. submissions to PAC National VP for Public Relations, Mark Pienkos at [email protected]. April 1st was 2020 Census Day and here are points YOU can do TODAY to ensure the Polish-American community is fairly — and accurately — counted in the 2020 Census. Join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Polish-American-Congress

Continued on next page... Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

In your state divisions, you can do the following: take place unless the stay-at-home order is in effect. The Executive Committee will monitor this situation and keep you informed on 1. Forward this newsletter to all the Polish-Americans within your an ongoing basis. personal network. 2. Post a statement on social media that you are proud to be a It saddened me, as well as many of our Directors, to learn of the Polish-American and be sure to respond to question number 9, passing of Fr. Carl Urban who was a priest for over a half century. concerning race and ethnicity, by noting “POLISH.” For many years, Fr. Urban was a National Director of the PAC of the Central Division of New York. He certainly will be missed for not 3. Make sure that all children are listed, as well. only leading us in prayer, but for his dedication and commitment 4. An information sheet is available in Polish for our Polish and to the Polish-American community. We send our condolences to English-speaking community with salient points concerning his family and extended family. the Census which can be distributed. Simply request a specific Wishing you health and safety as we go through this crisis. number of information sheets. Sincerely, Please make sure to reach out to your community. You can make a difference in having our community counted and be represented. There have been questions addressed concerning the upcoming Council of National Directors Meeting scheduled for September Frank J. Spula, President 8th through the 10th, 2020. As of this newsletter, the meeting will

PAC Vice-President Bajdek and the Kościuszko Mound in Kraków

Written by John Czop PAC Director of Policy Planning

Last Spring, readers of this Newsletter learned that Polish American Congress (PAC) Vice-President for American Affairs, Dean Emeritus Anthony J. Bajdek, was named an Honorary Member of the Kościuszko Mound Committee. Since then, many have asked me: “What is the Kościuszko Mound?” The answer to this question goes to the longstanding and unwavering democratic credentials of both Poland and the Poles. We need to understand the significance of the Kościuszko Mound because at the present moment, the House Foreign Affairs Committee and an influential segment of public opinion, which finds expression in the mainstream mass media, mistakenly assert that the present Polish Government is "backsliding" on its commitment to democratic values and the rule of law.

This negative point-of-view continues to get traction even after by retiring officials who were appointed by the communists, and Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki masterfully rebutted these by enacting legislation that benefit the Polish people rather than views when he spoke last April to an audience of at least 500 in the former nomenklatura who continue to cling to power and who the auditorium of New York University Law School. The Prime receive support and sympathy from influential sections of American Minister explained that the mission of his Government is to public opinion. The side of the auditorium where Poles were sitting make the Second Revolution to achieve the democratic program vigorously applauded the PM's explanation of his Government's of Solidarity. Morawiecki stated that the transformation of 1988- goals which promote democracy. 1991 was cosmetic and marked by continuity in both personnel and policy from the communist regime, the Polish People's Republic. His Government is fulfilling the democratic program of Solidarity Continued on next page... 2 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

The Kościuszko Mound is the most visible sign of the Photo above: Aerial view of Kościuszko Mound in Kraków. A serpentine path leads attachment of Poland and the Poles to democratic to the top, approximately 326 meters (1,070 ft) above sea level, with a panoramic view of the Vistula River and the city. (Approximate distance from downtown values which are the foundation of national freedom Krakow to the Kościuszko Mound: 10 minute Uber ride or 1 hour walk.) and independence. In 1794, at the time of Kościuszko's Insurrection for democracy, approximately 15% of the Polish population were nobles who constituted the political nation. The war to repel the counter- After Poland regained her independence in 1918, a new chapter revolutionary Russian invaders required the mass began in regards to the history of the Kościuszko Mound. On the of Poland's population, who were peasants without political rights, 150th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, on to serve as soldiers in Kościuszko's Army, this was the Democratic July 4, 1926, an official United States Delegation placed, at the peak Revolution in arms and the Nation in Arms, created by the war of the mound, soil from the battlefields of the War of Independence emergency which obliged Poles of all social ranks to unite. The which Kościuszko helped to win. war made the modern Polish political nation. This reminds us that the democratic revolution only succeeded The Congress of Vienna, 1814-1815, ratified the late 18th century in America because the patriots won a decisive military victory. partitions of Poland, and it established Kraków as a Free City. Kraków This is what makes America unique. Elsewhere in the western and its environs was the only small part of pre-partition Poland that world, during the nineteenth century and much of the twentieth remained independent, though it was surrounded on all sides by century, the democratic revolution struggled against strong counter- Austria, one of the three powers that partitioned Poland. Krakow revolutionary forces. was independent from 1815 until 1846 when Austria conquered This is why PAC Vice-President Bajdek's work as founder of the the former Royal Capital of Poland. American Friends of Kościuszko at West Point is of such high Two mounds already existed in Kraków; one dedicated to Krak contemporary importance. This is why his new book entitled THE and the other to Wanda. Three years after Kościuszko died, the PATRON SAINT OF WEST POINT: Tadeusz Kościuszko and his Senate of the Free City of Kraków enacted a resolution, in July Disciples (University of Illinois Press, 2019) well merits a wide 1820, to commemorate the national hero by building a mound in readership. Vice-President Bajdek's leadership reminds our fellow his honor on Blessed Bronisława Hill just west of the city. Poles Americans that Poland and America are partners in freedom. America from all parts of Poland participated by bringing soil from their enjoyed continuity from the victory in the War of Independence areas to erect the mound. Soil from the battlefield of Racławice, a to the present; Poland's history was marked by discontinuity and victory won by Kościuszko's peasant soldiers against the Russian several oppressive regimes because the counter-revolutionary forces invaders, was put on the mound. of Russia crushed Kościuszko's Uprising. This reminds us, at a time of Kremlin revanchism, that armed force is necessary to protect democratic values.

3 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

PAC –PAC NEW – New JERSEY Jersey DIVISION Division Initiative: INITIATIVE: RequestingRequesting the the United United StatesStates Senate Senate to to Adopt Adopt aa ResolutionResolution Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Katyn Forest Massacre Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Katyn Forest Massacre

A call to other State Divisions to support this important initiative.

A call to other State Divisions to SubmittedA few by: days later they emailed us stating that they forwarded our Andrzej Burghardt,documents President to their respective Washington, DC offices. I understand support this important initiative. that at this stage, the matter will be looked at by their Foreign Relations PAC – New Jerseyspecialists Division there. Submitted by Andrzej Burghardt [email protected] PAC New Jersey Division President Naturally, the effort has a chance of succeeding only if Polonia in [email protected] 201-220other-4111 states joins in it, and we bring more Senators on board. The

201-220-4111 simple wisdom is that politicians listen only to their own constituents. Our New Jersey Division embarked on an initiativeThis to is ask of critical the U.S. importance, Senate and to the issue time isthe now, attached so that as many To begin,Resolution our New Jersey to Commemorate Division embarked the on 80than initiative Anniversary to Senators of the as Katy possibleń Forest simultaneously Massacre. hear about the cause. All the ask the U.S. Senate to issue the attached Resolution in regards to details above are given primarily to illustrate that it does not take CommemoratingU.S. Senators the 80th Anniversary Robert Menendez of the Katyń Forestand CoryMassacre. A. Bookerlots of, effort,both ofonce New the resolution Jersey, proposalserve ison put the together. Senate All useful U.S. SenatorsForeign Robert Relations Menendez Committee. and Cory A. Booker, We contactedboth of New theirdetails local can offices be obtained initially from theby U.S.phone, Senate asking portal at forsenate.gov. an It Jersey, serveappointment, on the Senate Foreignand then Relations we Committee. were directed We contacted to complet is alsoe importantthe arrangements that once our messagewith their is out, “schedulers” all Senators receive their localstaff offices via email. initially It byturned phone, out asking to befor difficultan to find a window forfrom us usin the the same Senators’ resolution languageschedules for consideration. in a appointment,reasonably and then shortwe were timeframe, directed to complete so, bearing in mind that the bestMay timing we count for on suchyour help resolution by doing thewould same with the arrangements with their “schedulers” staff via be by April 13th, we agreed to meet with the respective Senator’sSenators in yourstaff. respective Both homeSenators State? have email. It turned out to be difficult to find a window for us intheir the Senators’ local officesschedules in in thea reasonably same building,short downtown Newark, NJ,Our and documents it was are not attached difficult here, to to bearrange used without timeframe,our so, visits bearing in in their mind offices that the best on timingthe same for day. modifications. In any case, I am here if you choose such resolution would be by April 13th, we agreed to to discuss. Thank you for your action! meet with the respective Senator’s staff. Both Senators have their local offices in the same building, downtown Newark, NJ, and it was not difficult to arrange our visits in their offices on the same day. Our four-person delegation, which is composed of our NJ Division President Andrzej Burghardt and three members of the Board: Dr. Stanisław Śliwowski, Tomasz Wojas and Teofil Głębocki met with the Senators’ staff on March 11th. We spent over ½ hour in each office, chatting and explaining to the staffers the background information on Katyń, and requesting that they bring the issue to the Senators’ attention. Most importantly, we delivered to each staff office two paper documents: the proposed language of the Resolution and a one-page choice of arguments in

support of our case, accompanied by a cover letter to the respective Senator,Our all bound four -inperson a neat presentation delegation, folder. co Onmposed the following of our NJ Division President Andrzej Burghardt and day, we exchanged more email correspondence, thanking them for their timethree and attentionmembers and of(importantly) the Board: attaching Dr. Stanis the electronicław Ś liwowski, Tomasz Wojas and Teofil Głębocki met with the Senators’ staff on March 11th. We spent over ½ hour in each office, chatting and versions of all these documents. Katyn Memorial, Jersey City, New Jersey 4 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Request for Resolution on the 80th Anniversary of Katyn

1. The Nuremberg Tribunal declined to serve justice to the victims of 5. The disclosed documents also revealed that mass deportations Katyn and their families due to Soviet interference. Hence, Katyn of the families of murdered Poles and other Polish civilians from represents an international genocidal crime covered up with lies the Polish territory conquered by the Soviet Union took place in and conspiracy of silence, as no other. To this day, Katyn remains conjunction with the mass extermination conducted pursuant to the worst unpunished crime of World War II. the Katyn Execution Order. 2. Due to effective Soviet disinformation and cover up, Katyn functions 6. On the 80th anniversary of this mass atrocity, it is necessary to alert in the public perception as the 1940 mass murder of 4,421 Polish the public that the Soviet operation against ethnic Poles during the officers buried in the Katyn forest because this mass murder site first phase of World War II consisted of 1) Mass exterminations of was discovered first by the German army back in the spring of Polish Officers POWs buried in Katyn, Piatykhatky, and Miednoye, 1943. Other mass murder sites of this genocidal operation were 2) Mass extermination of Polish civilians buried in numerous discovered after 1990, yet other sites have not been discovered other locations, and 3) Mass deportations of the families of the to this day. victims and other Polish civilians from conquered Polish lands to the Soviet Far East. 3. In the 1990s, the Russians disclosed some archival documents related to Katyn that were subsequently published in English in 7. Based on today’s knowledge, the crime of Katyn consists of state- a book entitled, “Katyn - Crime without Punishment.” sponsored mass extermination of at least 22,000 Polish nationals and mass deportations of about 1 million of Polish citizens from 4. Among such documents was an order issued by the Soviet Politburo conquered Polish lands. As such, this genocidal operation of on March 5, 1940 (“Katyn Execution Order”) showing that 25,700 World War II should be finally considered in its entirety by the Polish nationals, including 14,700 POWs and 11,000 civilians, were US Congress, and on its 80th anniversary proclaimed as the crime summarily sentenced to death and murdered in many different of genocide known as the Katyn Operation. locations throughout the Soviet controlled territories. The Katyn forest represented one of three main murder sites of the Polish Source: officers held as POWs. There are also many mass murder sites of “Katyn - Crime without Punishment.” ed. A. Cenciala, Yale Polish civilians murdered pursuant to the Katyn Execution Order. University Press, 2007.

5 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Resolution: Commemorating The 80th Anniversary of The Katyn Massacre

Whereas, following the signing of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact of Whereas, the Soviet Union continued the genocidal policy towards August 23, 1939 with the secret protocol to divide Poland between ethnic Poles after World War II. In July of 1945, Soviet forces conducted themselves1, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Russia invaded Poland; the Augustów Operation in north-east Poland, rounding up 2,000 people. About 600 of them disappeared without a trace. They are Whereas, upon defeating Poland, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Russia presumed to have been murdered and buried in an unknown location partitioned Poland and signed Treaty on Friendship and the Border in present-day Russia or Belarus. Their remains have not been located with a secret supplemental protocol to inform each other and closely to this day; collaborate in ‘liquidating” any Polish resistance “in embryo”2; Whereas, the manifest pattern of similar conduct aimed at destroying Whereas, the Soviet Russia and the Third Reich cooperated closely the Polish national group, as such, is evident in the Polish Operation in the aftermath of the invasion of Poland. At a conference in Brest- of 1937, Katyn Operation of 1940, and Augustów Operation of 1945; Litovsk on November 27, 1939, representatives of NKVD and SS discussed the methods of cooperation in liquidating Polish people Whereas, in December 1949 Raphael Lemkin, who formulated the and destroying Poland. The NKVD and SS continued this cooperation crime of genocide, invoked the Katyn crime as an example of the at subsequent conferences held in Lwów, Zakopane and Kraków. In crime of genocide4. In 1950, Judge Gunther testifying at a hearing March 1940 both aggressors implemented parallel genocidal operations before the Senate Subcommittee on the International Convention on against the Poles: Katyn Operation on the Soviet side of the partition the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide submitted a statement line and Special Pacification Operation known as Action AB on the from the President of the Polish American Congress that described German side; the Katyn forest massacre as “one of the most heinous genocides of modern times.” Hon. Gunther also reported that “millions of Poles Whereas, on March 5, 1940 the Soviet Politburo issued an order that throughout the world are still mourning the losses of those who directed the NKVD to carry out a mass killing of 14,736 officers were victims of Nazi (Germany) genocide in Auschwitz and of Soviet “more than 97% Polish by nationality” who were held as prisoners of genocide in Katyn”5; war, and 11,000 Polish civilians arrested on the territory conquered by the Soviet Union; Whereas, in the 1951 Written Statement on the Reservations to Convention on Prevention and Punishment of Crime of Genocide, the Whereas, in April and May 1940 the Soviet Russia carried out systematic United States declared that “the Roman persecution of the Christians, mass murders of Polish officers held as POWs and patriotic elements the Turkish massacres of Armenians, the extermination of millions of the Polish society in numerous locations throughout the Soviet of Jews and Poles by the Nazis are outstanding examples of the crime Union. Only one such location was discovered soon after the crime and of genocide”6; became known to the world as the Katyn Massacre. Those murdered in other locations were identified only after the demise of the Soviet Whereas, on September 18, 1951, the United States Congress established Union, some have not been identified to this day; the Select Committee to Conduct an Investigation and Study of the Facts, Evidence, and Circumstances of the Katyn Forest Massacre. In Whereas, in April 1940 the NKVD deported families of the murdered its July 2, 1952 Report, the Committee recognized the Katyn massacre Poles to Kazakhstan pursuant to March 2, 1940 Resolution of the as one of the most barbarous international crimes in world history Soviet Political Bureau of the VKP(b). This was just one of four mass and recommended that the Soviets be tried before the World Court deportations of Polish people from the conquered Polish territory into of Justice for the crime of “Katynism” that is a definite and diabolical the depths of the Soviet Union conducted between February 1940 totalitarian plan for world conquest; and June 1941, impacting about one million people according to the Polish sources3. Mass deportations of the Polish people constituted an Whereas, in 1993 the Committee of Experts of the Main Military integral part of the Soviet 1939-1941 genocidal actions undertaken Prosecutor’s Offices of the Russian Federation concluded that the against ethnic Poles, hereinafter called “Katyn Operation”; Katyn crime was an act of genocide under international law7. The August 2, 1993 statement signed by all members of the Committee Whereas, the Katyn Operation was one of several mass extermination read: “The murder . . . of Poles has all the characteristics of genocide, operations conducted against ethnic Poles by the Soviet Russia during the responsibility for which lies with Stalin, Beria, Molotov, Voroshilov, the Stalinist era. In the 1937 Polish Operation, the Soviets sentenced Mikoyan, Kalinin, Kaganovich, Merkulov, Kobulov, Bashtakov and 139,835 Soviet citizens of Polish descent, summarily executed 111,091 other individuals who committed the murder in practice”; Poles, and resettled thousands of them pursuant to NKVD Order No. 00485 of August 9, 1937. It was the largest ethnic murder and deportation operation during the Great Purge, and the largest extermination of Continued on next page... ethnic Poles in history outside of an armed conflict; 6 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Whereas, the government of the Russian Federation refused to declassify 5. recognizes that it is in the national interest of the United States and disclose all of its official records pertaining to the Katyn crime to assure proper international recognition of the Katyn genocide, and release complete lists of the victims and perpetrators. Instead, to support disclosure of the full truth and the establishment of a the policy of minimizing, distorting and justifying the Katyn crime comprehensive historical record of this grave atrocity; was implemented; 6. calls on the Government of the United Sates to analyze political Whereas, in 2011 Hon. Dennis Kucinich, member of US House of and moral ramifications of the denial of justice to the Katyn victims, Representatives, stated that Katyn was aimed at eliminating “the including the impact of impunity for the Katyn genocide on the very idea of Poland … to exterminate the people and the memory modern-day international peace and security, and implement of the people…” Hon. Kucinich reminded us that “Katyn presents a appropriate measures in order to protect the truth, seek justice, moral crisis to this day” because the moral calculus with respect to and prevent the crime of Katynism from reoccurring; Katyn has not been worked out. “We look back at Katyn as a marker 7. encourages education and public understanding of the facts and 8 in human history that has not yet been fully inscribed”, he said ; circumstances of the Katyn genocide, including the Katyn crime, Katyn lie, cover up, and conspiracy of silence; Whereas, the Elie Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–441) establishes that atrocities prevention 8. calls for protection of memorials and monuments honoring the represents a United States national interest, and affirms that it is the memory of the Katyn victims. policy of the United States to pursue a United States Government-wide strategy to identify, prevent, and respond to the risk of atrocities by “strengthening diplomatic response and the effective use of foreign assistance to support appropriate transitional justice measures, including Sources used to support the Resolution: criminal accountability, for past atrocities”; 1 Secret Additional Protocol to Treaty of Nonaggression Between Germany Whereas, to this day Katyn remains the crime without punishment. and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics of August 23, 1939. Impunity encourages the killers and poses risk of new massacres avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_century/addsepro.asp occurring once the killers realize that the outside world does not care; 2 German-Soviet Treaty on F riendship and the Border dated September Whereas, Poland and her people were the faithful allies of the United 28, 1939 with Secret Supplemental Protocol, avalon.law.yale.edu/20th_ States during World War II; century/sesupp1.asp; See also: “Katyn, A Crime without Punishment,” Anna Cienciala ed., Yale University Press, 2007, p. 59-62. Whereas, thousands of families of the Katyn victims have since made 3 Piotr Szubarczyk, Czerwona Apokalipsa, AA s.c., 2014, s. 229-230. their homes in this country. Approximately 10 million of US citizens 4 are of Polish ancestry, millions of our citizens have close ties with Anton Weiss-Wendt, (2019) "When the End Justifies the Means: Raphaël the families of the victims, and Katyn monuments accentuate the Lemkin and the Shaping of a Popular Discourse on Genocide," Genocide landscape of several American cities. Studies and Prevention: An International Journal: Vol. 13: Iss. 1: 173-188; scholarcommons.usf.edu/gsp/vol13/iss1/15. Now, therefore, be it resoved that the Senate of the United States 5 United States Senate, The Genocide Convention: Hearings before a (the House of Representatives concurring): Subcommittee of the Committee on Foreign Relations, 81st Congress, 2nd Session, January 23, 24, 25, and February 9, 1950 (Washington, DC: 1. honors the lives and legacies of the approximately 22,000 Polish US Government Printing Office, 1950), 136, 540. prisoners-of-war and civilians brutally murdered by the Soviet 6 NKVD, and thousands of their family members and other Polish Reservations to Convention on Prevention and Punishment of Crime of civilians deported in the most inhumane conditions to the depths Genocide, Advisory Opinion, Written Statement of the United States of of the Soviet Union in the Katyn Operation 80 years ago; America, 1951 I.C.J. 25 (May 28). 7 2. recognizes that Katynism poses enormous danger to the world The Committee of Experts included lawyers, Boris Topornin (member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, director of its Institute of Law and the State) community because it represents a template for annihilation of a and Aleksandr Yakovlev (head of the Department of Criminal Law and people and annihilation of the historical truth. If ignored, Katynism Criminology at the Institute), as well as representatives of other disciplines, poses danger that such grave atrocity may occur again; Inessa Yazhborovska (historian), Valentina Parsadanova (historian), Yuriy 3. recognizes that the systematic mass murders of the Polish people, Zoria (military sciences) and Lev Belayev (medical sciences). The text conducted pursuant to the order of March 5, 1940 issued by the of this decision is available in Anna Dzienkiewicz ed. “Rosja a Katyn,” Soviet Politburo and implemented in conjunction with 1940-1941 Karta, (2010), pp, 48–108. See also: Karol Karski, “The Crime of Genocide Committed Against the Poles by the USSR Before and During World mass deportations of the Polish people from lands conquered by War II: An International Legal Study,” Case ] Western Reserve Journal the Soviet Union, raise to the level of the crime of genocide that of International Law,·Vol. 45·2013, p. 719; scholarlycommons.law.case. requires appropriate transitional justice measures under the Elie edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1078&context=jil Wiesel Genocide and Atrocities Prevention Act of 2018; 8 Dennis J. Kucinich, Speech Presented at Case Western Reserve University, 4. urges the Government of the Russian Federation to fully declassify Cleveland, Ohio, February 4, 2011. See: M. B. Szonert ed., “Katyn: State- and disclose all official records pertaining to the Katyn genocide Sponsored Extermination, Collection of Essays,” Libra Institute, Inc. 2012. and stop denying, distorting and justifying this grave international crime; 7 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Revisiting a previous newsletter story...

Revisiting a previous newsletter story . . .

Reported by Mark Pienkos Poles faced during World War II. “Fairweather is to be commended PAC Newsletter Editor for his effort to bring to light the stories of previously unknown heroes of the horrors of WWII to his many readers,” Pienkos said. The June 2019 edition of the PAC He also presented a copy of the June 2019 PAC Newsletter letting Mr. “Your Voice in America” Newsletter Fairweather know that his book had been highlighted in the “From featured award-winning author Jack The Bookshelf” section. In return, author Fairweather expressed Fairweather who wrote his book his appreciation. entitled The Volunteer: One Man, an Underground Army, and the Pienkos also had the opportunity to talk with Wojtek Sawa, organizer Secret Mission to Destroy Auschwitz. of the event. Sawa explained that, “Author Jack Fairweather’s talk is part of ‘The Other Europe — Today’ series organized by the Polish- For insight and background as to the American Friends of the Arts and Sciences.” Mr. Sawa is a local book’s message, Amazon Books website activist and current President of the Venice Chapter of the Polish- states: “Jack Fairweather has written an American Friends of the Arts and Sciences. amazing account of the life of Witold Pilecki, and many others who bravely fought Nazi oppression and See next page for photos from the event... retained their humanity despite experiencing tremendous depravity. This book is a "page turner" that totally engrosses the reader into a large number of memorable heroes.”

Fairweather spoke about Pilecki, and his book “The Volunteer,”during a question-and-answer session on Tuesday, MarchReported 3, 2020 at the by Mark Pienkos William H. Jervey Jr. Public Library located in Venice, Florida. Over 100 people were present. Following his presentation, PACFairweather Newsletter Editor greeted attendees and autographed books for those interested in purchasingThe his Junebook. 2019 edition of the PAC “Your Voice in America” Newsletter featured award- Dr. Mark winningPienkos, PAC author National Jack Vice FairweatherPresident for Public who Relations, wrote his book entitled The Volunteer: One Man, was in attendance.an Underground He had the opportunity Army, and to share the a Secretcopy of the Mission to Destroy Auschwitz. June PAC Newsletter with Fairweather. Mr. Fairweather expressed sincere appreciation! For for insight the attention and given background to his book fromas to the the book’s message, Amazon Books website readers of the PACstates: Newsletter. “Jack Fairweather has written an amazing account of the life of Witold Pienkos was amazedPilecki, at the number and ofmany people whoothers attended who the bravely event. fought Nazi oppression and retained their He gave high praisehumanity to Wojtek Sawa, despite President ofexperiencing the Polish-American tremendous depravity. This book is a "page Friends of the Arts turner"and Sciences that – Venice totally Chapter, engrosses for Sawa’s work the in reader into a large number of memorable gaining much publicityheroes.” for the event. Many of the people expressed their appreciation for Fairweather’s book and presentation indicating

he shed light on the horrible cruelty and unimaginative destruction Fairweather spoke about Pilecki, and his bookJack “The Fairweather Volunteer interviewing,” upriser, during Bohdan a questionWalasek, who -foughtand with- Pilecki. answer session on Tuesday, March 3, 2020 at the William H. Jervey Jr. Public Library 8 located in Venice, Florida. Over 100 people were present. Following his presentation, Fairweather greeted attendees and autographed books for those interested in purchasing his book.

Fairweather greeted attendees and autographed books for those interested in purchasing his book. Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Dr. Mark Pienkos, PAC National Vice President for Public Relations, was in attendance. He had the opportunity to share a copy of the June PAC Newsletter with Fairweather. Mr. Fairweather expressed sincere appreciation for the attention given his book to readers of the PAC Newsletter.

Author Jack Fairweather (left) and PAC National Vice President for Public Relations, A unique and creative Powerpoint presentation added to the lively discussion that Mark Pienkos, exchange greetings prior to Fairweather’s presentation on March took place following Fairweather’s hour-long presentation. 3rd in Venice, Florida. A unique and creative Powerpoint presentation added to the lively discussion that took place following Fairweather’s hour-long presentation.

Author Jack FairweatherRIGHTEOUS (left) and PAC AMONG National Vice THE President NATIONS MEDALS for Public Relations, Mark Pienkos, exchange greetings prior to FOR POLESrd WHO SAVED JEWS Fairweather’s presentation on March 3 in Venice, Florida.

Author Jack Fairweather (left) and PAC National Vice President Pienkos was amazedfor Public at the Relations number, Mark of Pienkos, people exchange who attended greetingsA unique prior the and to event. creative He Powerpoint gave high presentation added to the lively Fairweather’s presentation on March 3rd in Venice, Florida. Polskie Radio/PL praise to Wojtek Sawa, President of the Polish-Americandiscussion thatFriends tookFebruary placeof 27, 2020the following Arts and Fairweather’s hour-long presentation. Sciences – Venice Chapter, for Sawa’s work in gaining much publicity for the event. Pienkos was amazed at the number of people who attended the event. TenHe Righteous gave high Among the Nations medals have been awarded to the Many ofpraise the to peopleWojtek Sawa,expressed President theirof the apPolishpreciation-American forFriends Fairweather’s of familiesthe Arts of Poles and whobook helped saveand Jews during World War II. The presentationSciences indicating – Venice Chapter,he shed for Sawa’slight workon inthe gaining horrible much publicitycruelty awardsfor and the were event. unimaginativepresented during a ceremony at the Polin Museum of Many of the people expressed their appreciation for Fairweather’sthe Historybook ofand Polish Jews in Warsaw in February 2020. presentation indicating he shed light on the horrible cruelty and Małgorzataunimaginative Gosiewska, a deputy Speaker of Poland’s lower house of parliament, took part in the event. She said the Poles who received the medals had risked their own lives and the lives of their families to help Jews persecuted by the Nazi Germans during the Holocaust. She also added that around 27,000 Righteous Among the Nations medals have been awarded internationally so far, including about 7,000 to Poles. The Righteous Among the Nations award is the highest Israeli civilian Małgorzata Gosiewska at the awards ceremony distinction. Recipients receive a medal with a quote from the Talmud (Photo: PAP/Wojciech Olkuśnik) saying: "Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire."

9 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

PAC MISSION STATEMENT COMMITTEE COMPLETES WORK!

In December, President Spula appointed Mark Pienkos to spearhead Following seven conference call meetings, each lasting approximately the effort to create a new PAC Mission Statement. Pienkos immediately one hour at least, the committee arrived at a final proposed PAC got to work putting together a dynamic committee, holding discussions, Mission Statement. The statement was presented to the PAC Executive gathering & sharing information, and formulating a Mission Statement Committee in March and was approved. that would gain unanimous agreement within the committee. This was accomplished! The next step is to present the proposed Mission Statement for approval at the 2020 PAC Council of National Directors Meeting As reported in the February PAC Newsletter, the task of the Mission scheduled for September in Washington, D.C. Statement Committee was to create a brief, but meaningful statement, that all PAC members can embrace — especially when asked: “What Committee Chair Mark Pienkos wishes to thank all members of is the Polish American Congress and What does it do?” the committee for their dedication to work together to formulate a new PAC Mission Statement that not only was embraced by all Members of the PAC Mission Statement Committee are: committee members, but also will be welcomed by the Council of • Debbie Majka (PAC Vice President for Cultural Affairs and National Directors when they meet later this year. Honorary Polish Consul in Philadelphia) • Stella Szcesny (State Director, PAC - Michigan Division) • Klara Wisniewska (PAC Washington, D.C. Office Administrator) • John Cebrowski (PAC Member and Vice President & Director of Development for the Polish Heritage Center in Panna Maria, Texas) • Zbyszek Koralewski (PAC - Long Island Division Vice President for American Affairs, Board Member of the Polish-Jewish Dialogue Committee, and Past Vice President of the Polish Singers Alliance) • Andzrej Prokopchuk (President, PAC - Northern California Division and National Director) • Mark Pienkos, Chair (PAC Vice President for Public Relations) 10 30 March 2020 Our Parish Times Our Lady Queen of Poland Give us this day our Bigos and Pierogi … by Bozenna Buda also attend the Holy Mass which Jerzy Frydrych, for his encourage- precedes the dinner. The group from ment and support. Many individu- ood has a way of bringing OLQP prepared and served a Polish als helped, including Dr. Urzula people together. Beyond its dinner to more than 250 people this Heberlein, GK David Birely, F nourishment value, it can be time. On the menu were favorite SK Stefan Witczak, SK Richard an expression and sharing of our Polish foods such as Bigos (hunter’s Okreglak, Dr. Edwarda Buda- culture and heritage. It served its 30 March 2020 Our Parish Times Our Lady Queen of Poland stew), Pierogi (dumplings), vegeta- Okreglak, Joanna Roberts, Bozenna many purposes again this year on bles, bread, and assorted delicious Buda, SK Andy Michaels, Renata January 29th when volunteers from home-made Polish pastries, includ- Zeleznik, Gosia (Maggie) Psurek, Our Lady Queen of Poland (OLQP) ing Chrusciki. During dinner, the Urszula Kolodziej, Katie (Kasia) Parish in Silver Spring sponsored students heard St. John Paul II’s Roberts, Ola Zeleznik, Anastazja Give us thisand served theday Wednesday Nightour Bigos and Pierogifavorite songs. … We had a display Kolodziej, Dr. Danuta Gromek, Ela Dinner for the Catholic Terps at Your Voice in Americaabout OLQP ■ Polish Parish American and about Congress St. Marciniak, Edyta Szemiel, Mary by Bozenna Buda also attend the Holy Mass which Jerzy Frydrych, for his encourage- the Catholic Student Center (CSC) John Paul II. Ann Evan, Tatiana Psurek, and at the University of Maryland in precedes the dinner. The group from ment and support. Many individu- ood has a way of bringing Many parishioners from OLQP Maria Kot. We thank Vera Szerszen, College Park. OLQP volunteers in the Catholic Student CenterOLQP kitchen prepared at theand University served a ofPolish als helped, including Dr. Urzula people together. Beyond its contributed to the success of the Sandra Zachariasiewicz, and Brad The Wednesday night dinners at Maryland preparing to serve the Wednesdaydinner Night to Dinner more thanfor the 250 Catholic people this Heberlein, GK David Birely, nourishment value, it can be dinner. We thank the OLQP Rosary Ortins for their support and Bozena F the CSC are held during the Fall Terps on January 29,2020: Andy Michaels,time. Richard On Okreglak, the menu Gosia were Psurek, favorite SK Stefan Witczak, SK Richard an expression and sharing of our Society, the St. Maksymilian Lis for helpful advice. We thank and Spring semesters. Local parish- Edwarda Buda-Okreglak, Urszula Kolodziej,Polish Renata foods Zeleznik, such as Kasia Bigos Roberts, (hunter’s Okreglak, Dr. Edwarda Buda- culture and heritage. It served its Kolbe Council of the Knights of everyone for their hard work and es and groups sponsor and feed the David Birely, Bozenna Buda, Joanna Roberts,stew), Stefan Pierogi Witczak, (dumplings), and Ola Zeleznik. vegeta- Okreglak, Joanna Roberts, Bozenna many purposes again this year on Columbus, and OLQP Pastor, Fr. contributions! Bog Zaplac! university students, most of whom Not pictured are Anastazja Kolodziej and bles,Danuta bread, Gromek. and assorted delicious Buda, SK Andy Michaels, Renata OPT January 29th when volunteers fromNational Remembrance Dayhome-made Mass Polish pastries, includ- Zeleznik, Gosia (Maggie) Psurek, Our Lady Queen of Poland (OLQP) ing Chrusciki. During dinner, the Urszula Kolodziej, Katie (Kasia) Parish in Silver Spring sponsored students heard St. John Paul II’s Roberts, Ola Zeleznik, Anastazja and served the Wednesday Night favorite songs. We had a display Kolodziej, Dr. Danuta Gromek, Ela Dinner for the Catholic Terps at Submitted by Bozenna Buda about OLQP Parish and about St. Marciniak, Edyta Szemiel, Mary the Catholic Student Center (CSC) Pastor Rev. Jerzy Frydrych, S.Chr., and the Parishioners of Our Since the fall of Communism, the memory of these soldiers is being PAC WashingtonLady Queen Metropolitan of Poland & St. Division Maksymilian Kolbe Parish wish you JohnrestoredNational Paul inII. an independent Remembrance PolandAnn through Evan, the Tatiana efforts Psurek, of families, and Day Mass at the University of Maryland in Many parishioners from OLQP Maria Kot. We thank Vera Szerszen, [email protected] volunteersBlessed Easter in the andCatholic invite Student you to Center share kitchenin our Lentenat the University and Easter of associates,By Bozenna Buda journalists, scientists, and others. This year marked the College Park. contributed to the success of the Sandra Zachariasiewicz, and Brad The Wednesday night dinners at Maryland preparing to servetraditions. the Wednesday Wesolego Night Alleluja! Dinner for the Catholic 10th anniversary of this remembrance. dinner.n We March thank the1, OLQP Our RosaryLady Ortins for their support and Bozena the CSC are held during the Fall OnTerps March on January 1, Our 29,2020: Lady Queen Andy Michaels, of Poland Richard Pastor Okreglak, Fr. Jerzy Gosia Frydrych Psurek, Society,Queen the of St.Poland Maksymilian Pastor Fr. Lis for helpful advice. We thank and Spring semesters. Local parish- celebratedEdwardaHIGHLIGHTS Buda-Okreglak,Holy Mass toOF Urszulacommemorate LENTEN Kolodziej, and EASTER National Renata Zeleznik, SEASON Remembrance Kasia at OURRoberts, Day President Andrzej Duda of the Republic of Poland wrote in his letter Kolbe JerzyCouncil Frydrych of the Knightscelebrat of- everyone for their hard work and es and groups sponsor and feed the DavidLADY Birely, BozennaQUEEN Buda, OF POLAND Joanna Roberts, & ST StefanMAKSYMILIAN Witczak, and OlaKOLBE Zeleznik. forO this occasion that, “I am convinced that memory and historical in Poland and the Polish Diaspora.PARISH The Mass intention, requested by Columbus,ed Holy Mass and OLQPto commemorate Pastor, Fr. contributions! Bog Zaplac! university students, most of whom Not pictured are Anastazja Kolodziej and Danuta Gromek. OPT the Washington Metropolitan Area Division of the Polish American truthNational are theRemembrance foundations Day of ourin nation’s identity and contribute to CongressSUNDAYS (PACWmad), at 11:40 was AM to –remember “Gorzkie Zale” and prayLenten for Devotions the Cursed buildingPoland and the thespirit Polish and strengthDiaspora. of a free, independent and sovereign Indomitable SoldiersFRIDAYS (“Wykletych-Niezlomnych at 7:30 PM - Stations of the Zolnierzy”). Cross The PolandThe Mass - honor intention, and requestedglory to theby heroes, and the eternal memory to Honor Guard was provided by the St. Maksymilian Kolbe Council thosethe Washington who died Metropolitanfor Independent Area Poland.” As St. John Paul II noted, of the Knights of Columbus.Parish Lenten Representatives Retreat - March from 27-30, organizations 2020 included “ThereDivision isof no the freedom Polish withoutAmerican truth.” Pastor Rev. Jerzy Frydrych, S.Chr., and the Parishioners of Our Congress (PACWmad), was to Lady Queen of Poland & St. Maksymilianthe PACWmad, Kolbe ParishPolish wish Legion you of AmericanNational Veterans (PLAV), andRemembrance Day Mass HOLY THURSDAY, April 9 at 7:30 PM - Mass of the Lord’s remember and pray for the Cursed- a Blessed Easter and invite you Polishto share Scouting in our Lenten Organization and Easter ZHP. SupperBy Bozenna Buda Indomitable Soldiers (“Wykletych traditions. Wesolego Alleluja! GOOD FRIDAY, April 10 at 7:30 PM – Stations of the Cross and -Niezlomnych Zolnierzy”). The The end of World War II did not bring independencen March to Poland.1, Our Poland Lady Adoration Honor Guard was provided by the HIGHLIGHTS OF LENTEN and EASTER SEASON at OUR Queen of Poland Pastor Fr. continued to be occupiedHOLY by SATURDAY, Soviet Russian APRIL forces 11: which imposed St. Maksymilian Kolbe Council Jerzy Frydrych celebrat- LADY QUEEN OF POLAND &Communism ST MAKSYMILIAN on the people.KOLBE The IndomitableO Soldiers fought for of the Knights of Columbus. • Traditional Polish Blessing of Food at 10:00AM, 10:30AM, PARISH ed Holy Mass to commemorate freedom and independence.11:00AM, 11:30AM, They 12:00PM,defied the and atheistic 12:30PM Communists Representatives from organizations National Remembrance Day in and were brutally• Easter tortured Polish Foodand imprisoned.Bazaar 10:00AM Many – 1:30PM were murdered included the PACWmad, Polish SUNDAYS at 11:40 AM – “Gorzkie Zale” Lenten Devotions Poland and the Polish Diaspora. • Easter Vigil Mass at 7:30PM Legion of American Veterans by the Communist authorities and buriedThe Mass in unmarkedintention, requested graves to by FRIDAYS at 7:30 PM - Stations of the Cross (PLAV), and Polish Scouting OLQP Pastor Fr. Jerzy Frydrych and visiting priest Fr. Adam gave out Holy obliterate their memory from the collectivethe Washington consciousness. Metropolitan Area EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 12 Organization ZHP. Communion at the Commemorative Remembrance Mass on March 1st. Parish Lenten Retreat - March 27-30, 2020 Division of the Polish American • Resurrection Procession and Mass at 10 AM & 12 Noon Easter The end of World War II did Congress (PACWmad), was to Mass not bring independence to Poland. remember and pray for the Cursed- HOLY THURSDAY, April 9 at 7:30 PM - Mass of the Lord’s Poland continued to be occupied Supper Indomitable Soldiers (“Wykletych buried in unmarked graves to oblit- year marked the 10th anniversary of DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, Special Program by Soviet Russian forces which GOOD FRIDAY, April 10 at 7:30 PM – Stations of the Cross and -Niezlomnych Zolnierzy”). The erate their memory from the col- this remembrance. • 10 AM – Holy Mass imposed Communism on the people. Adoration Honor Guard was provided by the lective consciousness. Since the President Andrzej Duda of the • 11:15 AM – Adoration of Blessed Sacrament & Chaplet of Divine The Indomitable Soldiers fought for HOLY SATURDAY, APRIL 11: St. Maksymilian Kolbe Council fall of Communism, the memory of Republic of Poland wrote in his Mercy freedom and independence. They • Traditional Polish Blessing of Food at 10:00AM, 10:30AM, of the Knights of Columbus. these soldiers is being restored in letter for this occasion that, “I am • 12 Noon – Holy Mass and veneration of the Relics of St. Faustina defied the atheistic Communists 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:00PM, and 12:30PM Representatives from organizations an independent Poland through the convinced that memory and histori- and St. John Paul II and were brutally tortured and • Easter Polish Food Bazaar 10:00AM – 1:30PM included the PACWmad, Polish efforts of families, associates, jour- cal truth are the foundations of our • 1:30 PM – Parish Easter Dinner “Swieconka” imprisoned. Many were murdered • Easter Vigil Mass at 7:30PM Legion of American Veterans nalists, scientists, and others. This nation’s identity and contribute to • 3 PM – Hour of Mercy - Adoration of Blessed Sacrament and OLQPby the Pastor Communist Fr. Jerzy authorities Frydrych alongside and visiting priest Fr. Adam gave out Holy (PLAV), and Polish Scouting OLQP Pastor Fr. Jerzy Frydrych and visiting priest Fr. Adam gave out Holy building the spirit and strength of Divine Mercy Devotion Communion at the Commemorative Remembrance Mass on March 1st. EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 12 Organization ZHP. Communion at the Commemorative Remembrance Mass on March 1st. a free, independent and sovereign • Resurrection Procession and Mass at 10 AM & 12 Noon Easter The end of World War II did Poland - honor and glory to the SUNDAY, May 3, Parish Feast Day and Picnic Mass not bring independence to Poland. heroes, and the eternal memory to those who died for Independent Poland continued to be occupied buried in unmarked graves to oblit- year marked the 10th anniversary of Poland.” As St. John Paul II noted, DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, APRIL 19, Special Program by Soviet Russian forces which erate their memory from the col- this remembrance. “There is no freedom without truth.” • 10 AM – Holy Mass imposedthe local Communism Council also on approved the people. a lective consciousness. Since the President Andrzej Duda of the • 11:15 AM – Adoration of Blessed OYSTERSacrament & Chaplet FEAST of Divine The$1,000 Indomitable contribution Soldiers toward fought housing for Con’t from page 28 fall of Communism, the memory of Republic of Poland wrote in his OPT Mercy freedomcosts for anda homeless independence. couple Theywho these soldiers is being restored in letter for this occasion that, “I am • 12 Noon – Holy Mass and veneration of the Relics of St. Faustina defiedcurrently the reside atheistic in a tent Communists behind the an independent Poland through the convinced that memory and histori- and St. JohnFranciscan Paul II Monastery. In addition andchurch were and brutallyare very torturedactive in andour efforts of families, associates, jour- cal truth are the foundations of our • 1:30 PM – Parish Easterto Dinner a wonderful “Swieconka” meal, the Knights imprisoned.Parish. Many were murdered nalists, scientists, and others. This nation’s identity and contribute to Our Lady • 3 PM – Hour of Mercy - Adorationoffered of Blessedsmall donatedSacrament articles and for by Thethe CommunistKnights are authorities thankful andfor building the spirit and strength of Queen of Poland Divine Mercysale. Devotion Everyone enjoyed their fill of the generous support of the Parish a free, independent and sovereign 9700 Rosensteel Avenue community that allows the annual unlimited oysters, including all of Poland - honor and glory to the Silver Spring, MD SUNDAY, May 3, Parish theFeast fixings. Day and Picnic Oyster Feast to continue with great heroes, and the eternal memory to The ProceedsRepresentatives from thegathered event atprimarily the Remembrance success. Day Mass for the Indomitable those who died for Independent Rev. Jerzy Frydrych, OPT Soldierssupport on Marchmothers 1, 2020,in need. at Our This Lady year Queen of Poland & St. Maksymilian Kolbe Poland.” As St. John Paul II noted, S. Chr. Pastor Parish in Silver Spring, MD. They included the St. Maksymilian Kolbe Council “There is no freedom without truth.” 301-589-1857 of the Knightslocal Council of Columbus, also approved who provided a the honor guard, and members of OYSTER FEAST $1,000 contribution toward housing Bozenna Buda, OPT Editor Con’t from page 28 the Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV), Polish Scouting Organization OPT ZHP,costs and for the Polisha homeless American couple Congress who Washington Metropolitan Area Division 301-495-3377 TheThe St.St. Maksymilian Maksymilian Kolbe Kolbe Knights Knights of Columbusof Columbus provided provided the Honorthe Honor Guard Guardat (PACWMAD),currently reside who inrequested a tent behind the Mass." the [GK David Birely, SK Slawomir Korzan, atOur Our Lady Lady Queen Queen of Polandof Poland Parish, Parish, Silver Silver Spring, Spring, during during Remembrance Remembrance Mass Mass on [email protected] SKchurch Andy Michaels, and are SKvery Maksymilian active in our Korzan, Dhna Bozenna Buda, SK Tomasz Franciscan Monastery. In addition whichMarch took1, 2020. place on March 1, 2020. to a wonderful meal, the Knights Kolodziej,Parish. SK Piotr Ciecwierz, Dr. Edwarda Buda-Okreglak, SK Richard Z. Okreglak, Our Lady offered small donated articles for SK KarolThe Klonowski,Knights areSK Jacekthankful Marczynski.] for Queen of Poland sale. Everyone enjoyed their fill of the generous support of the Parish 9700 Rosensteel Avenue community that allows the annual 11 unlimited oysters, including all of Silver Spring, MD the fixings. Oyster Feast to continue with great Proceeds from the event primarily success. Rev. Jerzy Frydrych, support mothers in need. This year OPT S. Chr. Pastor 301-589-1857 Bozenna Buda, OPT Editor The St. Maksymilian Kolbe Knights of Columbus provided the Honor Guard at 301-495-3377 Our Lady Queen of Poland Parish, Silver Spring, during Remembrance Mass on [email protected] March 1, 2020. Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Letter from President of the Republic of Poland

Attached is the letter from President of the Republic of Poland Andrzej The Color Guard was provided by the St. Maximilian Kolbe Council of Duda (written in Polish) to commemorate the March 1st anniversary the Knights of Columbus with representation from the Polish Legion of the National Remembrance Day for the "Cursed/Accursed/Doomed of American Veterans (PLAV) and Polish Scouting Organization ZHP. (Wykletych /Niezlomnych Zolnierzy)” Soldiers who continued fighting for Polish independence in the anti-Communist underground during The Remembrance Mass on March 1st for the "Wykletych-Niezlomnych the years 1944-1963. Zolnierzy" Soldiers was requested by the PAC – Washington Metropolitan Area Division. Several members of the Polish American Congress Excerpts from the letter were read to the congregation just before the Division were in attendance. start of the commemorative noon Mass on March 1, 2020 at Our Lady Queen of Poland Parish, Silver Spring, Maryland.

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12 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

13 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

THE MUSIC OF CHOPIN – 16TH ANNUAL CONCERT

Sponsored by the Polish-American AssociationThe Music of Sarasota of Chopin – 16th Annual Concert

Sponsored by the Polish-American Association of Sarasota

Submitted by Sue Wardynski Corresponding Secretary

The 16th Annual Concert of the Polish-American Association of Sarasota took place on Cultivating Polishsometime language andSunday, in the customs near March throughfuture, 15, Avery2020music, at may Holley once Hall again in Sarasota. return to OurSarasota featured to performperformer for this us year literature,here. dance, andwas other Avery activities. Gagliano winner of the 2020 National Chopin Competition.

The PolishHeld-American in Miami Association once every of f iveSarasota years and wishes sponsored to thank by all the who Chopin purchased Foundation tickets, of the as well asUnited those States,who attended young Americanthe concert. artists compete for cash prizes, concert arrangements, Submitted by Sue Wardynski and the opportunity to compete in the International Chopin Competition. Avery was the Avery Gagliano, Corresponding Secretary Mitch Panek,fourth President winner the of thePolish Polish-Amer-Americanican AssociationFeatured Association Artist of Sarasota of Sarasota, has hosted commented since the following Ms. Gagliano’s performance, “We were fortunate to present the 16th Annual The 16th Annual Concert of the Polish-American Association of inception of the competition. Sarasota took place on Sunday, March 15, 2020 at HolleyClassical Hall in Music Concert to a very appreciative audience. This time an all Chopin Music Sarasota. Our featured performer this year was AveryRecital Gagliano by Despite the super growing talented concerns Laureate of the of theCOVID Miami-19 National virus, an Chopin enthusiastic Music audience attended the winner of the 2020 National Chopin Competition. Competitionevent..” Avery did not disappoint those present. This 18-year old stunned the crowd with Held in Miami once every five years and sponsored by the Chopin her virtuosity at the keyboard. Her fingers literally flew as she performed the music of Foundation of the United States, young American artists compete for cash prizes, concert arrangements, and the opportunity to compete our beloved Chopin. From the Ballade to the somber notes of the Sonata to the sprightly in the International Chopin Competition. Avery was the fourth Mazurkas, her well-chosen program left the audience waiting for more. winner the Polish-American Association of Sarasota has hosted since the inception of the competition. Despite growing concerns of the COVID-19 virus, an enthusiastic audience attended the event. Avery did not disappoint those present. This 18-year old stunned the crowd with her virtuosityThe at the Music of Chopin – 16th Annual Concert keyboard. Her fingers literally flew as she performed the music of our beloved Chopin. From the Ballade to the somber Sponsorednotes of the by the Polish-American Association of Sarasota Sonata to the sprightly Mazurkas, her well-chosen program left

the audience waiting for more. All photos courtesy of ArthurSubmitted Okula by Avery goes on to Warsaw in October representing the United States Avery goes on to Warsaw in October representing the United States in the International in the International Chopin Competition. Our best wishes for much Editor's Note: Sue Wardynski Chopin Competition. Our best wishes for much success go with her. It is our hope that success go with her. It is our hope that sometime in the near future, The Polish-AmericanCorresponding AssociationAvery of Sarasota GaglianoSecretary was founded – 40featured years ago by artist Avery may once again return to Sarasota to perform for us here. a group of Polish-American residents of the Sarasota area, many of whom th did not speak Polish. However eager to promote the culture of Poland and The Polish-American AssociationThe of Sarasota 16 wishesAnnualAll to thank photos Concert all courtesyits heritage,of the it continues Polishof Arthur to- thisAmerican dayOkula as a thriving Association association in the ofgreater Sarasota took place on who purchased tickets, as well as those who attended the concert. Sunday, March 15, 2020Sarasota at Holleyarea. Meetings Hall are held in September Sarasota. through MayOur on thefeatured third Sunday performer this year Editor’s Noteof the: month at 2:30 pm in the Church Hall of the Incarnation Church Mitch Panek, President of the Polish-American Association of located at 2929 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida. Sarasota, commented following wasMs. Gagliano’s Avery Gaglianoperformance, winner of the 2020 National Chopin Competition. “We were fortunate to present the 16th Annual ClassicalThe MusicPolish -AmericanCall (941) 924-0899 Association for additional of information. Sarasota was founded 40 years ago by a group of Polish- Concert to a very appreciative audience.Held This in Miamitime anAmerican allonce Chopin every residents five yearsof the Sarasotaand sponsored area, many by the of whom Chopin did Foundation not speak Polish. of the Music Recital by the super talented UnitedLaureate of States,the Miami Nationalyoung American artists compete for cash prizes, concert arrangements, Chopin Music Competition.” and the opportunityHowever to eager compete to promote in the the International culture of Poland Chopin and Competition. its heritage, itAvery continues was to the this day as a 14 thriving association in the greater Sarasota area. fourth winner the Polish-American Association of Sarasota has hosted since the inception of theMeetings competition. are held September through May on the third Sunday of the month at 2:30 pm in the Church Hall of the Incarnation Church located at 2929 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, Florida. Despite growing concerns of the COVID-19 virus, an enthusiastic audience attended the event. AveryCall did (941)not disappoint 924-0899 for those additional present information. This 18. -year old stunned the crowd with her virtuosity at the keyboard. Her fingers literally flew as she performed the music of our beloved Chopin. From the Ballade to the somber notes of the Sonata to the sprightly Mazurkas, her well-chosen program left the audience waiting for more.

Cultivating Polish language and customs through music, literature, dance, and other activities.

Avery goes on to Warsaw in October representing the United States in the International Chopin Competition. Our best wishes for much success go with her. It is our hope that Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Will lockdown slow pandemic spread?

Poles praised for their timely When they arrived they were immediately placed under two-week quarantine. Tiny Denmark also ordered a border lockdown at the anti-Coronavirus measures. same time but waited until over 800 cases had accumulated, Poland already acted when it still had only 86 infected patients. Submitted by Robert Strybel Warsaw Correspondent In view of the immense financial setback caused by the shutdown, President Andrzej Duda announced special government subsidies WARSAW– Poland’s first Coronavirus case was for businessmen to help defray their losses. Debtors were given the officially confirmed on March 4th, but within 10 opportunity to defer credit repayment. days that figure had grown to over 100 including three related fatalities. Within a few days, the Nobody knows when the pandemic will peak, begin leveling off infection level had exceeded 150 and appeared likely to continue and eventually go into decline, but one thing is certain. The 2020 growing. But that data was still relatively modest compared to coronavirus crisis is expected to have dire, far-reaching consequences other European countries. for the economy, political scene and many other areas of human endeavor worldwide. As Poland topped the 100-case mark, Europe’s coronavirus front- runner Italy had chalked up nearly 24,000 cases and second-ranked Spain was treating over 7,700 patients. Their governments had been Polish News Bytes Update slow to introduce emergency measures and their easy-going people (March 17, 2020) initially adhered to them with reluctance. Schools kept operating in Britain, and spectator-attended soccer games took place in Germany Scientists Believe Coronavirus Cure May Be in Sight long after Poland had restricted such activities. Professor Maciej Drąg, who is head of a research team at Poland’s Wroclaw Technological University, believes that the retrovirus In an attempt to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the disease code has been cracked and a cure may be in sight. Working with caused by the coronavirus, the Polish government in due time had colleagues from Germany’s Lubeck University, the researchers banned public events and ordered the closure of schools, museums, say they have found an enzyme inhibitor which could destroy the cinemas, clubs, libraries, bars and restaurants. The latter were only virus. “The enzyme itself was previously known, but there were allowed to provide take-aways and home delivery. Shopping centers millions of combinations of ‘keys’,” Drąg, a chemistry professor, were also closed, and only food stores, pharmacies, laundries, and said. Metaphorically calling the enzyme a “lock,” he explained: banks were permitted to operate. Following an emergency meeting “We have found the one ‘key’ that matches this enzyme” of European Union government chiefs, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki indicated that Poland’s swift reaction to the crisis had The results are still under review, but the researchers have not evoked the interest and respect of other countries. patented their discovery to make it available free of charge to scientists worldwide. As the pandemic spread, Poland declared an epidemic emergency and closed its borders to non-citizens. LOT Airline provided special, No Plans to Postpone May 10 Presidential Election – Prime Minister cut-rate charter flights to bring home Poles stranded abroad. “Currently there are no plans to postpone the presidential election set for May 10th because of the coronavirus epidemic,” Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told a mid-March press conference. He noted that local elections went ahead in France when the country had 5,400 infected patients. But Poland’s opposition was quick to point out that the conclusive second round of France’s council elections did get postponed due to the virus scare that caused a low turnout in the first round. The epidemic has brought Poland’s election campaign to a standstill, and the opposition wants the election postponed. Incumbent Andrzej Duda is on national TV daily during the epidemic and has an unfair advantage over other candidates, his rivals complain.

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15 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

Poland Goes Online in Response to Coronavirus Poland’s militant leftist-liberal opposition continues to criticize the When Italy, which leads Europe in coronavirus cases and deaths, government over specific issues, but it is not the all-out mud-slinging let out school classes, students felt they were on vacation, started that has been par for the course since the conservative government partying and meeting up at cafés and other youth hangouts. came to power in 2015. Although a few abstained, not a single Profiting from that example, before all Polish schools were shut opposition lawmaker voted against the government’s stiff anti-virus down, teachers gave their pupils assignments to work on at home program, and all opposition parties cooperated and contributed and conducted lessons online. Wherever possible, the employees to a special pandemic summit called by President Andrzej Duda. of many corporations and other businesses are also working from home. Though theaters, museums and art galleries were closed as part of a national clampdown on the pandemic, some are now providing virtual visits and tours.

Individualistic Poles Highly Disciplined Amid Pandemic The current coronations pandemic has reaffirmed the widespread belief that normally individualistic Poles, known to have a mind of their own, can come together and become highly disciplined when cornrowed with a major threat. Unlike Italy, where over 25,000 were fined for leaving their quarantined homes, the overwhelming majority Poles are closely adhering to the restrictions ordered by their government to curb the spread of the deadly disease.

Poland’s World-Class Composer Penderecki Passes Away at 86

Submitted by Robert Strybel The oratorio entitled ”Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ according Warsaw Correspondent to St Luke” (1966), his greatest religious-themed work, was followed by compositions honoring the victims of Hiroshima, Auschwitz Polish and world culture sustained an irreparable loss recently with and Katyń. He also produced numerous smaller sacred and secular the death of music giant Krzysztof Penderecki at the age of 86. works including choral pieces, concertos, and chamber music. His music was also featured in such Hollywood movies as The Exorcist, A prolific composer, dynamic conductor, and charismatic professor, Twister, Wild at Heart and Shining. who had educated several generations of music students, Penderecki died in his adopted hometown of Kraków at the age of 86. Up until Penderecki, whose creativity defined the Polish music scene of the his death, Penderecki was widely regarded as one of the world’s latter half of the 20th century on into the 21st, without a doubt greatest living composers. A master of large, often monumental ranks among such Polish musical greats as Chopin, Moniuszko, musical forms, his specialty were oratorios, symphonies and operas. Paderewski, Szymanowski, Lutosławski, Górecki and Kilar.

Hiroshima Sheet Music composed by Penderecki 16 Your Voice in America ■ Polish American Congress

From the Bookshelf

Untold Stories of Polish Heroes from World War II By Aleksandra Ziolkowska-Boehm James S. Pula (Foreword) Ziolkowska-Boehm’s protagonists include a variety of people and experiences that A full understanding of the historical process must include studies of enhance the usefulness of the volume. the social and economic conditions of societies as well as biographies There are: Tadeusz Brzeziński, a member of the people on which a clear understanding of history is based— of the Polish diplomatic corps; the hero but not just the “great” people. Biographies of “average” individuals, who escaped the Lwów ghetto to fight in who exist in a society, have their own experiences and are acted the Warsaw Uprising and later founded upon by their surrounding environments, are essential to a clear a theatre group in Montréal; a pilot who escaped from the Soviet and complete understanding of the past and its influence on the Union to fly fighters over Great Britain; a photographer of the present. In this respect, Aleksandra Ziolkowska-Boehm has made Warsaw Uprising; a nurse during the Warsaw Uprising; a personal a major contribution to furthering the understanding of World memories of the post-war era move to the United States; a person War II, and especially the part played by Poland and Poles, with her who was forcefully deported with her family to the Soviet Urals, compilation of individual biographies of people who participated later escaping to the Middle East and eventually Mexico; the boy in many of its formative events. who, though only eight when the war began, but survived Pawiak Prison, traveled to Brazil, and became an internationally-known poet and artist.

During the Global Pandemic, we the PAC Executive Committee and Washington, D.C. Office are thinking of you and your loved ones. Take care and STAY HEALTHY!

PAC NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE LAYOUT AND DESIGN BY POLISH FALCONS OF AMERICA: Anita Jedwabski (Massachusetts) Tim Kuzma (Pennsylvania) [email protected] [email protected] Courtney Caughey-Stambul, Ania Karwan (California) Mark Pienkos, Editor (Wisconsin) Communications Director [email protected] PAC National VP for Public Relations [email protected] Tiarra McGinnis Zbigniew Koralewski (New York) Communications Assistant [email protected] 17 Polish American Congress

Founded in May, 1944, the Polish American Congress is a National Umbrella Organization, representing at least 10 million Americans of Polish descent and origin. Its membership is comprised of fraternal, educational, veteran, religious, cultural, social, business, political organizations and individual membership. The Polish American community prides itself on its deeply rooted commitment to the values of family, faith, democracy, hard work and fulfillment of the American dream. We are present in every state and virtually every community in America, on various social, business and economic levels.

The Polish American Congress, an “umbrella” organization, is a federation of over 3000 Polish American organizations and clubs, ranging from national fraternal benefit societies, such as the Polish National Alliance, Polish Women’s Alliance, Polish Roman Catholic Union, Polish Falcons and others, including veteran, cultural, professional, religious and social associations, with aggregate membership of over one million. The PAC by-laws also provide for individual membership, as well as associate membership.

The PAC promotes civic, educational and cultural programs designed to further not only the knowledge of Polish history, language and culture, but to stimulate Polish American involvement and accomplishments.

The governing body of the PAC is the Council of National Directors, consisting of directors elected by their respective State Divisions or National Organizations and up to 10 at-large directors elected by the Council. Day-to-day operations are conducted by the Executive Committee elected by the Council of National Directors for a two year term.

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