A heartfelt tribute has finally come to fruition after many years of advocacy.
On Monday night, the Empire State Building was illuminated for the first time to celebrate Poland’s Independence Day, following persistent efforts to gain approval for this cultural display.
In anticipation of National Day on Tuesday, red and white LED lights were activated at the iconic Manhattan building, symbolically switched on by Polish soccer player Robert Lewandowski at 10 PM Polish time.
“This long-anticipated tribute, coinciding with Veterans Day, recognizes Poland’s historical struggle for freedom and the shared values of our two nations,” stated Marek Skrimowski, President of the Kosciuszko Foundation, highlighting the contributions of Lewandowski and the Polish Consulate General in New York in making it possible.
“For Polish Americans in New York City, witnessing the Empire State Building glow in our colors is a source of pride and acknowledgment.”
Requests for this tribute began in 2024, when several council members reached out to the trust, but they initially encountered numerous refusals from the organization overseeing the building’s lighting schedule.
According to U.S. Census data, Polish Americans represent nearly 2% of New York City’s population, with the city hosting the largest Polish community in the nation.
Bob Holden’s office, a City Councilman, expressed that the recent breakthrough was facilitated by a meeting arranged in April between the CEO of Empire State Realty Trust and Polish Consul General Mateusz Sakovic.
“Tonight, for the first time in years, the Empire State Building will shine in the colors of Poland’s flag. This has truly been a long time coming,” Holden noted.
“I’m proud to have contributed to this milestone, and I’d like to thank all who worked hard to bring this moment to life. It was a significant night for both the Polish community and New York City.”
As detailed on its website, the Empire State Building has a notable history of changing its lighting colors to honor significant events, holidays, and organizations since 1976, including celebrating independence days for countries like Mexico, Ukraine, and Colombia in 2024 alone.
