250 Years of America: The Polish Contribution
Concept of the Event and National Educational Initiative
Briefing Paper
Executive Summary
The Polish American Congress is launching '250 Years of America: The Polish Contribution,’
a nationwide educational initiative developed to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The project is co-financed by the Senate of the Republic of Poland through the Senat–Polonia 2026 program and is intended to become one of the leading Polish- American contributions to the America250 celebrations. Its official inauguration is scheduled for September 24, 2026, in the historic Presidential Suite at Union Station in Washington, D.C.
Purpose of the Initiative
The initiative is designed to present the history of the United States through the achievements and service of Poles and Americans of Polish descent. Its central message is that the Polish experience is not a separate chapter of American history, but an integral part of the American story. The project combines historical education, public diplomacy, and cultural outreach while strengthening ties among Poland, the United States, and the Polish- American community.
Strategic Objectives
• Commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
• Launch a national educational initiative with lasting value beyond America250.
• Promote Poland’s historical and contemporary contribution to the United States.
• Create an additional platform for dialogue among Polish and U.S. leaders and representatives of the Polish-American community.
• Provide a permanent educational resource for schools, cultural institutions, and Polish-American organizations.
Event Schedule
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026
Venue: Presidential Suite, Union Station, Washington, D.C.
12:00–1:00 PM – Invitation-only VIP Reception with approximately 50 leaders from the Polish-American community, business, academia, culture, philanthropy, and public service, together with American elected officials.
1:00–4:00 PM – Official Ceremony attended by approximately 200 invited guests, including remarks by Polish and U.S. officials, the keynote address by the President of the Republic of Poland, and the official opening of the exhibition inaugurating the educational initiative.
A press availability may be arranged.
The “250 Years of America: The Polish Contribution” Exhibition
The exhibition opens with a two-minute introductory film followed by approximately thirty original animated presentations featuring distinguished Poles and Americans of Polish descent whose achievements shaped the United States over the past 250 years. The
featured individuals include military leaders, elected officials, scientists, inventors, entrepreneurs, artists, athletes, and other prominent public figures. The exhibition will be accompanied by printed display panels and an illustrated companion book.
Guests
Approximately 200 invited guests will include senior officials from Poland and the United States, Members of Congress, representatives of the diplomatic corps, leaders of the Polish-American community, business executives, academics, cultural leaders, philanthropists, and invited media.
President of the Republic of Poland, Mr. Karol Nawrocki is expected to attend the event and deliver a keynote address.
The program includes a special appearance by Andrzej Poczobut, one of the most recognizable representatives of the Polish minority in Belarus and a symbol of the struggle for freedom and human rights. During the ceremony, Mr. Poczobut will deliver brief remarks in Polish, marking his first visit to the United States following his release from imprisonment in Belarus.
Legacy
Following its Washington premiere, the exhibition will travel to numerous Polish-American and American events throughout the United States, ensuring that the initiative remains a lasting educational legacy of the America 250 commemoration.
