Mayor Adams hosts first Polish Heritage celebration at Gracie Mansion

Mayor Eric Adams hosted a breakfast reception at Gracie Mansion today to honor the Polish-American community, recognizing their immense contributions to New York City.

This is the first time Polish heritage has been formally celebrated at the mayor’s residence, underscoring the significant role Polish Americans play in shaping the city’s cultural and civic life.

Addressing a crowd of community leaders and dignitaries, Mayor Adams reflected on his personal connections to the Polish community, both in New York City and during his visit to Kraków. He emphasized the profound impact of Polish Americans, saying, “You are part of the fabric that makes this city and this country great… your future is as bright as your past.”

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The mayor also highlighted the presence of Polish Americans in key sectors of the city, including law enforcement, where numerous Polish American officers ensure the safety of the city. “There’s no greater signal on how you believe in the importance of our city than when you see the men and women of the New York City Police Department who are here today,” said Adams, acknowledging their essential role.

The event featured the recognition of several distinguished members of the Polish-American community. Among the honorees was Andrzej Buczek, a leader in the Polish American folk dance community, who has dedicated decades to promoting Polish culture in New York City.

He was followed by Mary Bielski, a retired music teacher and cultural leader who has spent over 50 years preserving Polish traditions, and Krzysztof Matyszczyk, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who has been instrumental in supporting the Polish community through his work at Fidelity Tax and Insurance.

In his speech, Mayor Adams called on all communities to unite in the pursuit of the American dream, citing Polish Americans as a prime example of the success that immigrant groups can achieve in New York City. “You believe in this country and the beauty of this country,” he said, encouraging Polish Americans to hold on to their roots while embracing their new home.

The breakfast reception served as a powerful reminder of the diverse cultures that make New York City a global beacon of opportunity and unity.