QUEENS, NY (June 17, 2026) — Assemblymember Steven Raga joined the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York, members of the Polish-American community, and fellow lawmakers on June 3 to celebrate Polish Heritage Day at the Legislative Office Building in Albany.

The event brought together approximately 50 attendees for an afternoon of cultural performances, historical reflection, and community celebration honoring the rich heritage and enduring contributions of Polish Americans across New York State.

A central focus of this year's event was the recent adoption of Assembly Resolution K1468, sponsored by Assemblymember Raga, which honors the life and legacy of Tadeusz Kościuszko. A military engineer, freedom fighter, and hero of the American Revolution, Kościuszko remains one of the most important figures linking the histories of Poland and the United States.

The resolution was the culmination of ongoing collaboration between Assemblymember Raga's office, the office of Senator Patricia A. Fahy, and leaders within New York's Polish-American community, including Andrzej Cierkosz, President of the Dobra Polska Szkoła Foundation, and Maria Głowacki of the Polish Community Center in Albany. Speakers participating in the event were presented with engrossed copies of the resolution in recognition of their contributions to preserving and promoting Polish heritage.

The celebration featured remarks from Consul General Mateusz Sakowicz of the Republic of Poland; Andrzej Cierkosz, President of the Dobra Polska Szkoła Foundation; and historians Lauren Roberts and Kiersten Marcil, who also joined Assemblymember Raga for a formal introduction on the Assembly Floor. During his remarks, Cierkosz reflected on years of efforts to strengthen public awareness of

Tadeusz Kościuszko's legacy and the enduring historical ties between Poland and the United States. Maria Głowacki of the Polish Community Center in Albany served as Master of Ceremonies and helped coordinate the event, which brought together community members, cultural organizations, and guests from across New York State. Assemblymember Mary Beth Walsh McMahon also participated in the event and presented the Consul General with a copy of her own Polonia Day Resolution.

“I express my sincere gratitude to Assembly Member Steven Raga, a true friend of Poland, for his leadership and for his steadfast support of New York’s diverse communities, including the vibrant Polish-American community,” said Consul General Mateusz Sakowicz. “I am particularly grateful for his efforts in advancing the Assembly resolution honoring General Tadeusz Kościuszko, one of the greatest heroes in the shared history of Poland and the United States. Kościuszko's unwavering commitment to liberty, equality, and democratic ideals continues to inspire both our nations to this

day.”

Attendees enjoyed performances by Angelina Podkalicki and Monika Chibowski of the Copernicus Choir, who performed the Polish and American national anthems as well as traditional folk songs. Father Tomasz Koszalka and Marysia Swieton also performed, helping to showcase the rich cultural traditions and musical heritage of Poland.

"Polish Heritage Day is an opportunity to celebrate a community whose contributions have strengthened New York for generations," said Assemblymember Steven Raga. "As we recognize the legacy of Tadeusz Kościuszko through Resolution K1468, we also honor the countless Polish Americans who continue to enrich our state through their leadership, culture, and service. I am grateful to the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York, Andrzej Cierkosz, Maria Głowacki, our community partners, and everyone who helped make this celebration possible."

The event highlighted the deep historical ties between Poland and the United States while creating an opportunity for New Yorkers to learn more about Polish culture, history, and traditions.

Assemblymember Raga extends his gratitude to the Dobra Polska Szkoła Foundation, the Polish Community Center in Albany, the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York, the event's performers and speakers, and all those who attended and helped make Polish Heritage Day a success.