RESOLUTION FOR BOARD MEETING OF MAY 2, 2024
Title
RESOLUTION sponsored by the Board of Commissioners recognizing Polish Constitution Day
Body
WHEREAS, Polish Constitution Day, also known as “Swieto Trzeciego Maja” is celebrated annually on May 3rd to commemorate the adoption of the first Polish Constitution (“Constitution”) on May 3, 1791. This historical document was a landmark achievement for Poland, as it was the first written constitution in modern Europe and the second in the world only to the United States Constitution; and
WHEREAS, the adoption of the Constitution marked a critical point in the development of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Constitution was created during a time when Poland was under threat from external forces and was grappling with internal strife. Despite these challenges, the Constitution was passed and paved the way for a new era of governance and democracy in Poland; and
WHERAS, the Constitution was a groundbreaking document that established a constitutional monarchy in Poland-Lithuania, granting political rights to all citizens regardless of social status. The document enshrined principles such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, and laid the foundation for a more representative form of government; and
WHEREAS, although the Constitution was a document of immense importance, its success was short-lived. Poland-Lithuania was eventually partitioned by its neighboring powers, and the Constitution was annulled nineteen months after its passage. However, the values and ideals embodied in the Constitution live on and continue to inspire generations of Polish people; and
WHEREAS, the current Polish Constitution was adopted on April 2, 1997 by the National Assembly and went into effect on October 17, 1997. While the provisions contained in the constitution have been updated to reflect modern ideology, the constitution builds upon the principles of the first Constitution including the protection of civil rights and appropriate balance among the branches of government; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Polish Constitution Day has been a tradition since Poland regained its independence in 1918. While celebrated sporadically, it is an important public holiday that is observed with parades, speeches, and cultural events. May 3rd is a day to remember the legacy of the Constitution and to reflect on the values and ideals that it represents; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, on behalf of ourselves and our staff, do hereby recognize Polish Constitution Day; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent Record of Proceedings of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.
Dated: May 2, 2024