May 3, 2002

I send greetings to those gathered to commemorate the anniversary of the Polish Constitution.

More than 200 years ago, Polish patriots signed a constitution modeled after our own, asserting their right to national independence and liberty for all citizens. The ideals declared in their Constitution formed the foundation for Poland to become a mature democracy. Today, the United States and Poland stand as friends and close allies, united in a common tradition of striving towards freedom and dedication to a future of opportunity and hope.

From our Nation’s earliest days, Polish Americans such as Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski were vital to our country gaining independence and succeeding as a democracy. I commend the Polish American Congress and its affiliated organizations for promoting the contributions of Polish Americans and for your commitment to the values and ideals on which our Nation was founded.

Best wishes for a memorable observance.