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Lowell proclaims Polish Constitution Day; community raises flags and lays wreath
Summary
Mayor Daniel P. Rourke read a proclamation declaring May 3, 2025, Polish Constitution Day in Lowell, followed by prayers, historical remarks, a flag-raising and a wreath-laying ceremony attended by city officials and members of the Polish-American community.
Mayor Daniel P. Rourke read a proclamation on May 3, 2025, declaring Polish Constitution Day in the City of Lowell and joined city officials and members of the local Polish-American community for a flag-raising, wreath-laying and a series of remarks on the holiday’s historical meaning.
The proclamation, read by Mayor Daniel P. Rourke on behalf of the City Council, recognized the adoption of Poland’s constitution on 05/03/1791 — described in the text as the first modern constitution in Europe — and honored the contributions of Polish Americans to Lowell. Rourke said such events are “our favorite days of the year as elected officials,” and invited councilors and attendees to mark the city’s long immigrant heritage.
Community leaders, clergy and veterans’ organization members joined the ceremony on the city steps. Melissa Olynyk, hosting the event on behalf of the Dombolski organization, introduced a schedule of events that included an invocation, the laying of a wreath, an honor guard-assisted flag raising and musical performances. Reverend Tennis of Saint Casimir Parish delivered an opening prayer; Deacon Steve Poppe offered a closing prayer.
Guest speaker Giulio Lenick spoke about personal and cultural ties to Poland, saying, “I stand here today with pride in my heart because I love being Polish.” Pauline Golek offered a historical overview, noting early Polish contributions in North America and linking Lowell’s local observances to wider Polish-American history, including references to Count Kazimierz Pulaski and other historical figures.
Susan LeBlanc, commander of the Polish American Veterans (PAV), and Frank Panik of the PAV assisted with the flag raising while members of St. Margaret’s choir performed the U.S. and Polish national anthems. Julie Olynyk and Sandra Waller laid a wreath at the Polish monument; the mayor and organizers invited attendees to a post-ceremony reception and light lunch at the Dombolski at 10 Coburn Street.
The event combined ceremonial recognition by city officials with community remembrances and religious observance; no legislative or budgetary actions were taken. The proceedings included historical references to Poland’s 1791 constitution and to local Polish-American commemorations held in Lowell in earlier decades.
A reception at the Dombolski followed the outdoor ceremony.
