Poland’s Muslim community has held a joint prayer service as part of official commemorations of the country’s upcoming Independence Day.
The religious ceremony took place in the northeastern city of Białystok on Friday as part of a tradition that dates back to before World War II.
The minority Muslim community consists mainly of Polish Tatars which served in Poland’s armed forces as part of the Tatar Uhlan Regiment, formed shortly after Poland regained its independence.
A separate Tatar unit, the 13th Vilnius Uhlan Regiment, later fought in the Polish army during the outbreak of World War II.
Chairwoman of the Muslim Religious Community in Białystok, Lilla Świerblewska, said: “Yet again we have the fortune to celebrate the anniversary of our independent homeland, which was dreamed of and fought for by generations, including by Polish Muslims.
“Freedom and independence are not guaranteed forever – they depend on us all, on our patriotism, which includes […] readiness to take part in the defense of the homeland. This is our shared, great responsibility, regardless of origin and faith.”
Poles across the country are set to celebrate Independence Day on Monday November 11, marking 106 years since the reestablishment of Poland as a sovereign nation.
Poland had spent 123 years under the rule of several neighboring empires and kingdoms, before regaining its independence after the collapse of the Russian, German and Austro-Hungarian empires at the conclusion of World War I.
Prayers by members of other religious communities in Białystok will also be held to honor Independence Day, with Orthodox and Catholic services scheduled on Monday.
The minority Muslim community consists mainly of Polish Tatars which served in Poland’s armed forces as part of the Tatar Uhlan Regiment, formed shortly after Poland regained its independence.
A separate Tatar unit, the 13th Vilnius Uhlan Regiment, later fought in the Polish army during the outbreak of World War II.
Chairwoman of the Muslim Religious Community in Białystok, Lilla Świerblewska, said: “Yet again we have the fortune to celebrate the anniversary of our independent homeland, which was dreamed of and fought for by generations, including by Polish Muslims.
“Freedom and independence are not guaranteed forever – they depend on us all, on our patriotism, which includes […] readiness to take part in the defense of the homeland. This is our shared, great responsibility, regardless of origin and faith.”
Poles across the country are set to celebrate Independence Day on Monday November 11, marking 106 years since the reestablishment of Poland as a sovereign nation.
Poland had spent 123 years under the rule of several neighboring empires and kingdoms, before regaining its independence after the collapse of the Russian, German and Austro-Hungarian empires at the conclusion of World War I.
Prayers by members of other religious communities in Białystok will also be held to honor Independence Day, with Orthodox and Catholic services scheduled on Monday.
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