OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
CITY OF CHICAGO
LORI E. LIGHTFOOT
MAYOR
October 16, 2019
TO THE HONORABLE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHICAGO
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I transmit herewith, together with Aldermen Reboyras, Taliaferro and Gardiner, a resolution celebrating Polish American Heritage Month.
Your favorable consideration ofthis resolution will be appreciated.
Very truly yours,
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, During October, the United States observes Polish American Heritage Month, a national celebration of Polish history, culture, and pride; and
WHEREAS, In October, the Polish American community celebrates the arrival ofthe first Polish settlers to Jamestown, Virginia in 1608, and commemorates the deaths of Generals Casimir Pulaski and Tadeusz Kosciuszko, both distinguished military leaders who fought for the independence ofthe United States during the American Revolution; and
WHEREAS, Polish people have long been an integral part of America's history and culture, and millions immigrated to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing with them a love for independence, their culture, their new country, and values shared by Poles and Americans alike; and
WHEREAS, An organized Polish American community first appeared in Chicago in the late 1860s with the establishment of St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish. Since the 1860s, Polish immigrants have come to Chicago in four separate waves resulting from economic and political challenges at home. These immigrants brought their knowledge and ethic of hard work to a developing nation, and their presence has largely shaped the Chicago we see today; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago metropolitan area is now home to over 1.9 million people of Polish descent, making it the largest and most established Polish community in the world outside of Poland. Chicago's Polish population includes teachers, builders, entrepreneurs, and activists who have worked hard for their families and communities, as well as their own...
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