We honor nine decades of community strength and shared heritage
For ninety years the Canadian Polish Congress has stood as a pillar for the Polish community in Canada and for Polish-Canadian ties across the country. In moments of hardship such as martial law, the organization provided support and solidarity, and it has actively championed Poland’s engagement with NATO while fostering strong collaboration with Canadian federal and provincial governments. The remarks came from the presidential couple, Andrzej Duda and Agata Kornhauser-Duda, underscoring the enduring bond between Poland and Canadian Poles.
We are grateful for that
The Canadian Polish Congress (KPK), the largest Polish community organization in Canada, marked its 90th anniversary with messages from Poland’s leaders. They posted a commemorative recording on social media to acknowledge the milestone and the community’s contributions to Canadian society.
From the perspective of Poles living in Canada, greetings went out to everyone who participated in the jubilee celebrations. The message highlighted the growing Polish community in Canada, now approaching one million people with Polish roots, and it celebrated the deep ties linking Poles and Canadians alike.
President Andrzej Duda spoke on behalf of Poles in Canada, extending a warm salute to the participants and noting the anniversary as a moment to reflect on shared history and ongoing collaboration.
The first lady emphasized that the KPK has woven the Polish community into the fabric of Canadian life for ninety years, supporting various civic, cultural, and educational initiatives that benefit both nations.
She recalled the difficult era of martial law when the Polish diaspora in Canada provided shelter and support for thousands of compatriots, creating a lifeline across the ocean. The gratitude for that act was heartfelt and long lasting.
The discussion also celebrated the strong support shown for Poland joining NATO during its bid for membership. The solidarity demonstrated by the Polish community in Canada was praised as a powerful example of international friendship and mutual respect. The leaders thanked the Congress for maintaining constructive relations with Canadian authorities at multiple levels while guiding community initiatives with care.
You build respect and attachment to the common heritage
Kornhauser-Duda highlighted how the organization has throughout its history driven patriotic, charitable, and educational projects. The work spans youth scouting, language education, and the Polish press, all aimed at preserving language and traditions while strengthening the shared heritage that binds Polish and Canadian identities together.
She stressed that the long arc of dedication is visible in notable events such as Ontario Polish Heritage Month and the May 3 Constitution Parade. Those gatherings bring communities together and celebrate national milestones with enthusiasm and pride.
Congratulatory messages were extended to the Congress for its anniversary, along with wishes for continued impact in serving the Polish community in Canada and in the personal lives of its members. The sentiments expressed by the Polish leadership reminded attendees of the strong ties that sustain cultural and civic cooperation across borders.
The president underscored that the achievements of Poles in Canada evoke pride and joy, and he encouraged the community to carry that spirit into ongoing celebrations and future endeavors. The aim is to keep strengthening the Polish-Canadian partnership and to support a vibrant, inclusive national community.
In the collective memory of the audience, these words reaffirm the promise of enduring alliance, shared history, and mutual respect that continues to grow through the work of the Canadian Polish Congress and its many districts across the country.
History of the Canadian Polish Congress
The organization now known as the Canadian Polish Congress began as the Federation of Polish Societies of Canada, registered in February 1933. Today, the KPK oversees fourteen districts nationwide. The Polish-Canadian population exceeds one million residents, with Ontario home to a large portion of this community.
As the 90th anniversary is celebrated, ceremonial acts including the raising of the Polish flag in front of Toronto City Hall and a parade through downtown Toronto are part of the citywide commemorations. The events highlight the long-standing presence and contributions of Poles in Canada, linking historical memory with contemporary civic life.
aja/PAP
Source: wPolityce