Bob Dole: “May 3 is a very important day for the Polish people for it is on this day that they will celebrate the 205th anniversary…”

“May 3 is a very important day for the Polish people for it is on this day that they will celebrate the 205th anniversary of Poland's first constitution. Last week, along with a number of my Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisles, I introduced a resolution commemorating this historic occasion. I am pleased that the Senate is acting today to unanimously pass this resolution. The Polish Constitution was the first is Eastern Europe to secure individual and religious freedoms for all persons living under it. While it was short lived, its principles endured and it became the symbol around which a national consciousness was born. When the courageous people of Poland forced out their Communist oppressors, they returned to the basic freedoms and principles contained in this constitution. Mr. President, this resolution is a manifestation of this Congress' strong support for a free independent Poland. It is also a reflection of the deep and abiding friendship between Poland and the United States. I know that all of my colleagues join with me in congratulating Americans of Polish descent and Poles all around the globe on this important occasion.”