Annual Event Celebrated the 235th Anniversary of the Polish Constitution
Photojournalism by Dr Frank Gerratana. Staff report based on reporting by Dr Gerratana. Cover photo by Dr Gerratana.
New Britain residents and elected officials carried on a proud, decades-long tradition at the State Capitol, gathering to celebrate Polish Day and the 235th Anniversary of the Polish Constitution of 1791. As always, the city’s vibrant Polish community and its leaders were at the heart of the statewide festivities.
Opening the ceremonies were led Rep Dave DeFronzo (D-26) and Lt Gov Susan Bysiewicz (D). Rep DeFronzo is the latest to carry the torch for the Capitol event, continuing a legacy maintained by former State Representatives Anthony Tercyak (D-26) and Peter Tercyak (D-26).
The event itself was founded 35 years ago by the late State Representative Stanley J. Krawiec (D-26). His daughter, Deborah Anne Krawiec, continued her own tradition at this year’s event by sharing the history of Polish Day at the Capitol. Her father initiated the gathering to honor his heritage and pay tribute to the 1791 Constitution, a historic document symbolizing the tenacious pursuit of freedom and democracy.
The celebration commenced with a moving rendition of the Polish National Anthem by the Polonia-Paderewski Choir. Attendees also heard remarks from Mateusz Debowicz from the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York, before Lt Gov Bysiewicz presented the official proclamation.
A focal point of the day was the recognition of distinguished honorees, prominently featuring leaders with deep ties to New Britain.
Jason Jakubowski, President & CEO of Connecticut Foodshare, was recognized for his statewide efforts combating food insecurity, overseeing the distribution of more than 45 million meals annually. Before his leadership in statewide hunger relief, Jakubowski was a fixture in New Britain public service, having served as a City Council member, City Treasurer, and as one of Connecticut’s Presidential Electors in 2012.
Joanna Michalski, a respected community leader and Branch Manager at the Polish & Slavic Federal Credit Union in New Britain, was honored for her tireless cultural advocacy. Originally from Sanok, Poland, she serves as President of the Polish Language School in New Britain and was the Marshal of the New Britain Contingent at the 2024 Pulaski Day Parade in New York City. Her steady leadership was also recognized recently when she was named Person of the Year in 2023 by the Polish-American Business & Professional Association.
Other statewide honorees recognized for their community service included Ansonia Mayor Frank Tyszka, Rep Mary Mushinsky (D-85), and Rep Tami Zawistowski (R-61).
