Schakowsky Statement on Casimir Pulaski Day
WASHINGTON - Today, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, a Senior Chief Deputy Whip, issued the following statement in recognition of Casimir Pulaski Day:
"The first Monday in March is recognized as Casimir Pulaski Day in the state of Illinois. Pulaski Day is an annual opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon the extraordinary life of General Casimir Pulaski. Casimir Pulaski traveled from Poland to America, looking to assist General George Washington and his army. Upon arriving, he wrote: ‘I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it.' He went on to serve as a revolutionary war officer, eventually losing his life during the struggle for American independence.
"Casimir Pulaski brought military experience and knowledge to a fledgling American force and played a meaningful role in how it developed as a fighting force. He is widely known as the ‘Father of the American Cavalry' for his efforts, and it was leading a cavalry charge where he was mortally wounded outside Savannah, Georgia, in October 1779.
"This is an important day in Illinois, and in Chicago, which is the largest Polish diaspora community in the world. Nearly 1 in every 10 residents of the 9th Congressional District are of Polish descent, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to represent them. Pulaski Day is a day when Illinois residents of any background are reminded that we have the freedoms we do because of the bravery, efforts, and sacrifices of Casimir Pulaski and so many like him.
"The last weeks in Ukraine have made it clear that while the specific battlefields may have changed, the fight for freedom and liberty continues. Casimir Pulaski traveled across the ocean to fight for liberty on our behalf, but unfortunately, recent events have made clear that today's urgent fight for freedom is much closer to the General's countrymen in Poland. Bombs are falling throughout Ukraine. Thousands of people have died, and hundreds of thousands more are fleeing for their lives.
"As of yesterday, March 6, reports indicate that over one million Ukrainian refugees have fled to Poland, where they are being welcomed with open arms. I want to express my gratitude to the Polish people and their government for their generous welcome to these refugees. Poland stands tall alongside the United States and our European allies as we support Ukraine in a fight for its very survival against the aggression of Vladimir Putin's Russian forces. General Pulaski would be proud to see the country of his birth standing steadfast on the side of right. In many ways, Poland's actions today on this front are a continuation of General Pulaski's legacy.
"Like every year, I am so proud to join many in our community celebrating the life and many contributions of Casimir Pulaski."
###