Political Quotes

“I rise today to commemorate with the Polish people the 205th anniversary of the adoption of Poland's first Constitution. As the first liberal Constitution in Europe in 1791, it was preceded only by our own Constitution in 1787. This Polish document established a constitutional monarch and recognized the peasants for the first time as members of the nation. Mirroring our constitution, it too established three independent branches of government. It also carries the honor of being the first constitution established through a peaceful revolution. Unfortunately, this expression of liberty to all, by rule by majority, and religious freedom survived for less than 2 years as it became a moral threat to the neighboring absolute monarchies. Poland lost its independence that year when it was partitioned by Imperial Russia and Prussia. Only in the last 5 years has Poland again emerged as an independent nation through the fall of communism. Currently, free Poland enjoys open elections and economic success. The return of democratic principles to this nation has elevated its hopes for inclusion in the North American Treaty Organization [NATO] and full incorporation into the European Union. With Chicago the largest Polish city next to Warsaw, and with many of her immigrants residing in my district, I am pleased to support this resolution which honors the advancement of democracy in a country close to my heart and the hearts of my constituents.”