Ottawa, May 2, 2014 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to mark Polish Constitution Day:
“Tomorrow, we join with Canada’s Polish community in celebrating May 3rd Constitution Day. This national holiday in Poland commemorates the ratification of the country’s constitution on May 3, 1791.
“Poland is recognized for having adopted the first broadly democratic constitution in Europe. Throughout the years, the Constitution has remained an object of great pride. It is regarded as a national symbol and represents the Polish spirit of independence.
“Marking Constitution Day was banned during many years of partition and under Nazi and Soviet occupation but, with the fall of communism, it was rightfully restored as an official Polish holiday. Today, Poland is a leading nation in the European Union.
“Canada has benefitted from the many contributions of its million-strong Polonia. On this day, as families and friends gather together at commemorative events, parades and other joyous festivities, I encourage everyone to celebrate the importance of the values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law that we enjoy.
“As Minister for Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes to everyone celebrating May 3rd Constitution Day.”
Alexandra Fortier
Minister’s Office
819-994-2482
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
