After 123 years in captivity

The Polish Independence Day is held on November 11th. It commemorates Poland's regaining of independence after the years of partitions in 1918 and, at the same time, the ceasefire in World War I on the Western front.

On November 11, 1918, two events coincided, determining Poland's regaining of independence. On that day, the Regency Council established a year earlier, dependent on the invaders, handed over military power in Poland to Józef Piłsudski, who arrived in Warsaw the previous day after his release from prison in Magdeburg. Three days later, the Regency Council decided to dissolve and handed over all power in the state to Piłsudski.

Unique Independence Day

Minister Marlena Maląg stresses that 11 November 1918 is a date that has left a special mark on Polish history. – This is our common holiday and our common history, which we must never forget – says the minister.

Event though the coronavirus pandemic has made this year's Independence Day celebrations differ from the previous anniversaries, Minister Maląg encourages to pay homage and give the greatest appreciation to the people who, have contributed to Poland's regaining of independence through their dedication and consistent fight. – We should however do it differently this time. We should pray, hang the national flag, sing the hymn. Let us not allow the virus to take our celebrations – she said.

At the same time, Minister Malaga called for attention to be paid to the needs of others on this special day, especially in times of pandemic. – We have to go through this difficult time together. Caring for the elderly, lonely and disabled is proof of our solidarity and community. The best example of patriotism  – she stresses.

During Independence Day, the main office of the Ministry of Family and Social Policy at 1/3/5 Nowogrodzka St. will be highlighted in red and white.