Konferencja prasowa w Manchester – Marszałek Senatu RP Małgorzata Kidawa Błońska o roli Polonii i pamięci historycznej.

On March 7, 2025, a press conference was held, organized by the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Manchester, along with the official visit of the Marshal of the Senate of Poland, Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska, and a delegation of the Polish Senate. The event was a key element of the official visit, aiming to commemorate distinguished Poles buried at the Southern Cemetery and facilitate a meeting with the Polish community at Chetham’s School of Music.

Representing Wyspa TV, Maria Anna Furman and Przemysław Majdak had the privilege to participate in discussions shedding light on the current challenges and needs of Poles living in the United Kingdom.

Marshal Kidawa-Błońska highlighted the role of the Polish diaspora in preserving historical memory, noting that it is often the Polish community abroad that takes on the responsibility of maintaining places of remembrance and passing on history to future generations.

“Poland’s history does not end at its borders. The national identity of Poles living abroad is built on the foundation of memory—of those who shaped our culture, fought for freedom, and defended the relevant values today,” stated the Marshal of the Senate.

She also emphasized that the Polish Senate continues to work on new support mechanisms for the Polish diaspora, both in terms of protecting sites of remembrance and strengthening young generations' connections to Polish culture and history.

During the press conference, the Marshal of the Senate addressed the current situation of Poles living in the UK. The media’s questions focused on the impact of Brexit on the Polish community, access to education and the job market, and the role of Polish organizations in representing the interests of Poles in the UK.

“Despite many political changes, the Polish community in the United Kingdom remains highly active and well-organized. We are proud of how Poles engage in local life while maintaining strong ties with their homeland,” emphasized the Marshal.

In discussions with media representatives, she also highlighted the importance of Polish-British cooperation in education and culture.

“We want the history of Poles in the UK to be part of the shared European heritage and for Polish culture and language to be nurtured not only at home but also in schools and public institutions,” she added.

In the evening, at Chetham’s School of Music, the Marshal of the Senate and the delegation met with representatives of the Polish community from the Manchester consular district. The event was symbolic and provided a space for discussions on current issues concerning the Polish diaspora.

One of the key moments of the evening was a Chopin music concert performed by the talented Polish pianist Alicja Kojder. Marshal Kidawa-Błońska emphasized that culture is Poland's best ambassador worldwide and that through such events, the bonds of Poles living abroad can be strengthened.

“Chopin’s music is the essence of Polishness—full of emotion, depth, and longing. Such is also the history of our emigration. This gathering shows that our culture and heritage remain alive no matter where we are,” said the Marshal, thanking the organizers for preparing the concert.

During the conference, the Marshal of the Senate expressed admiration for the efforts of Polish organizations, which work towards integrating Poles in the UK while preserving national identity. She also stressed that the Polish diaspora is a crucial partner in building Polish-British relations and that support for Poles abroad remains a priority for the Senate of Poland.

The meetings' discussions and exchanges demonstrated how many issues require continued cooperation and dialogue.

“Our task is not only to preserve memory but also to look ahead. Together, we can be more effective in ensuring that Poland and its diaspora form a united force,” concluded Marshal Kidawa-Błońska.

The Polish Senate's visit to Manchester was a gesture of concern for history but also a testament to the fact that Poles—regardless of where they live—constitute one community built on culture, memory, and mutual support.

Editor Maria Anna Furman