In a powerful display of national pride and remembrance, the streets of Warsaw were once again the stage for the annual independence march, reflecting the deep-rooted patriotism of the Polish people.
The sea of white and red flags and the familiar extracts of the Polish anthem, “Mazurek Dąbrowskiego”, paid homage to the heroes of Polish independence. Participants, as every year, honored the legacy of those who fought for Poland, while also recognizing their duty to safeguard the future.
One marcher emphasized the importance of the Polish flag, stating that “this is the day when all Poles should stand together under the white and red flag that unites us all.”
Freedom, a recurring theme, was not seen as a permanent gift but as a task entrusted to Poles, necessitating a continuous peaceful fight for sovereignty, explained another participant, an eight-time attendee, who talked to Catholic Radio Maryja.
For many, the Nov. 11 Independence March is a cherished tradition, with one participant expressing her desire to show that there are people in Poland who care for their country dearly. The march attracted families, with one woman affirming her love for her homeland and her support for truth.
Safety was assured by the March’s security, seen in orange vests, who managed the event without any incidents. The slogan of the march, “Poland has not yet perished” (“Jeszcze Polska nie zginęła” – the phrase from the Polish national anthem), echoed the sentiment that as long as Poles remain a sovereign and free people, the nation lives on.
The march was also a stand against perceived threats to Polish sovereignty, especially in the context of ongoing discussions within the European Union about treaty changes that could impact national competencies, including foreign policy and monetary matters, as noted by MEP, Dominik Tarczyński.
The march proceeded through the streets of the Polish capital of Warsaw, along Jerusalem Avenues, and across the Poniatowski Bridge concluding at the National Stadium’s open grounds.
