Chicago celebrates Casimir Pulaski Day today, but festivities kicked off yesterday. Illinois communities and leaders from all over the state gathered at the Polish Museum of America to join in the celebration.
The museum was filled with traditional Polish song and dance as they honored Polish war hero Casimir Pulaski.
Pulaski was a Polish immigrant who died fighting for America's freedom during the Revolutionary War. He worked to train and organize the American military. Pulaski has become known as the "Father of American Cavalry" through his efforts. He also played a key role in saving George Washington and his army's lives by leading cavalry unit that distracted the British. Poland holds him in high regard as well, as he fought for freedom in Poland as well.
Polish President Andrzej Duda came to Jefferson Park on Sunday to speak to the Chicago Polish community. While there, he spoke about the future of Poland and the importance of generational roots.
"When the president said how the youth should be proud and how he sees that, it felt for me inspiring and I wanted to listen and to hear what else he had to say," said attendant Paulina Peikos.
The event ended with traditional Polish dance performances.
Many view the day as an opportunity to appreciation of Polish immigrants and their contributions to America.
Polish immigrant Anna Sokolowski spoke on about the significance of the day:
"This man, really, he died for this country, so we should appreciate not only him but all the other immigrants who came and fought for this country and made it what it is today."