Editor's Note: These are courtesy translations of local news provided by the U.S. Army Garrison Poland Public Affairs team for the benefit the military community stationed here. Views or opinions are not endorsed by USAG Poland or the U.S. Army.
Colorful Crowds Fill the Streets of Poznań
Colorful crowds filled the streets of Poznań on Saturday for the Equality March. The march began around 2 p.m. from Fredry Street. The vibrant procession, complete with platforms, passed through Jeżyce, reached the Ogrody loop, and then made its way through Grochowska and Bukowska streets. It returned to the Imperial Castle via the Kaponiera roundabout, where an afterparty was planned.
"For the first time, the City of Poznań is a co-founder of the event," said Mayor Jacek Jaśkowiak. "In this way, we officially participate in this celebration of equality and diversity. Poznań is home to everyone, regardless of orientation and beliefs. There is no room for discrimination, because respect is due to every person."
The European Commission's Representation in Poland partnered with the march for the first time in history, coinciding with the celebrations of the 20th anniversary of Poland’s membership in the European Union.
The Equality March is the culmination of the Poznań Pride festival, which began on May 30 and lasted throughout June. According to Wielkopolska police, over 5,000 people participated in this year’s Equality March.
Promenade with Round Piers and Swimming Pool in the Lake Officially Opens in Słupca
The new promenade and an unusual swimming pool, partly located in the lake, officially opened in Słupca recently. The project, costing 7 million zlotys, includes a playground and various attractions. The promenade was named after Bosman Franciszek Szulczyński during the opening ceremony.
The area features an integration circle with a place for a bonfire, seating, deckchairs, and a changing room. Additionally, there is an illuminated pool with heated water, allowing the facility to be used even in cold weather and during the evening.
Poznań Remembers the Heroes of June '56
Residents of Poznań commemorated the victims of June '56 on the 68th anniversary of the workers’ uprising. The festivities began at dawn and continued throughout the day, with the main ceremony held at Adam Mickiewicz Square.
At 6:30 p.m., alarm sirens sounded and the Polish national anthem was sung at the Poznań Red '56 Monument. The ceremony was attended by participants of the June events, as well as representatives of local and provincial authorities.
Parliamentarians, Poznań and Wielkopolska councilors, troops, uniformed services, a delegation from the United States Army, NSZZ "Solidarity," and representatives of various organizations, associations, and institutions also honored the heroes of June.
“If it weren’t for your determination, the world would be worse,” said the President of Poznań to the heroes of June. “The 1956 uprising did not overturn communism in Poland and Europe, but it chipped away at the totalitarian rock, gradually expanding spaces of freedom. So if we feel free today, it’s thanks to you.”
Jerzy Majchrzak, President of the Association of Poznań June 1956, recalled the names and stories of young people who gave their lives for freedom. "Sixty-eight years ago, in this place, Poznań residents, workers from the largest production factories, and students gathered to protest against oppressive power and demand bread and freedom," Majchrzak said. "There were four of us boys from one district. Curious about the world and adventurous, we joined the marching workers. Then the accidents happened quickly. There was blood."
The celebrations at Adam Mickiewicz Square concluded with the laying of flowers at the monument. In 1956, Poznań residents were the first in then-communist Poland to oppose the authorities. The workers’ uprising was driven by growing dissatisfaction with living and working conditions since the early 1950s. The street protest turned into a mass demonstration. The communist government deployed the army to suppress the rebellion, resulting in 58 deaths, including the youngest victim, 13-year-old Romek Strzałkowski. Approximately 500-600 people were injured.
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