In a recent vlog, Eliza Michalik floated the idea of moving Independence Day, a holiday historically tied to Poland’s struggle for freedom, to October 15. She frames this date as a moment when elections, after years marked by authoritarianism, helped restore personal and national freedom. Her suggestion shifts the symbolic focus to a fresh celebration of liberty that aligns with a warmer, sunlit October rather than the historical associations of the existing date.
Michalik argues that November 11 has become linked in the public consciousness with fascism, violence, and the fires that damaged Warsaw. Consequently, she proposes that this date should be discarded from the national calendar because it carries negative connotations that obscure the values of independence and resilience that the country seeks to honor.
She emphasizes that a society needs not only to remember its positive moments but also to acknowledge the difficult times and to use symbols that help people endure hardship. In her view, the memory of the past should be balanced with hopeful symbols that guide a nation forward. Therefore, she advocates abolishing Independence Day on November 11, arguing that the date is now overshadowed by associations with fascism and violence.
– says Michalik.
When asked about what could replace November 11, Michalik offers a concrete proposal that centers on communal celebration and shared optimism.
Indeed, she envisions October 15 as the ideal occasion to mark a new Independence Day. She describes a moment when, after nearly a decade of political strain and the shadow of dictatorship, a liberated political climate emerged through elections. This October would be warm and bright, a perfect backdrop for a national holiday characterized by joy, togetherness, and sunlit optimism. Such a celebration could stand apart from past associations and become a fresh symbol of freedom and democratic renewal.
– she said.
End of excerpt. This perspective reflects a broader conversation about how nations choose symbols that best represent their values and aspirations, and how historical memory can shape the way people experience national holidays. The discussion, as reported by wPolityce, underscores the importance many citizens place on meaningful and unifying commemorations that promote civic pride and resilience, while avoiding inflammatory or divisive associations.