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May 3, 2026, marks the 235th anniversary of the signing of the “May 3rd Constitution” or “The Third of May Constitution” (pl: Konstytucja Trzeciego Maja), Europe’s first written, modern, document of its kind and the world’s second only after the United States Constitution that had come into force in 1789. The groundbreaking “May 3rd Constitution” contributed greatly to the global advancements of democracy by codifying the fundamental principles underlying modern democratic societies. .

To honor its legacy, the Polish American Congress Wisconsin Division is hosting a very special celebration in the 1st Floor Rotunda at the State Capitol, Madison, Wisconsin. This free and open to the public event is planned for Sunday, May 3, 2026, 1:30 -3:15 pm .

The gathering will take place around the Replica of the Liberty Bell, a spectacular reminder of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and shared values connecting the nations of Poland and the United States.

The program will include two proclamations from the Wisconsin Governor and Wisconsin Secretary of State, a citation from the Wisconsin State Assembly, and short speeches of distinguished guests and invited speakers. Among them will be the Consul General of the Republic of Poland and guests from the Foreign Ministry of Poland.

On May 3, 2026, let’s honor the legacy of the May 3rd Constitution in accord with the Senate Joint Resolution 11 that proclaimed May 3rd of every year to be “Trzeciego Maja Day” in the state of Wisconsin. It also invited all citizens to join their fellow Wisconsinites of Polish descent in celebrating Polish Constitution Day on this day.

Everybody is invited to the event at the State Capitol, but if you cannot attend, please join us in a thoughtful reflection on its significance throughout history. Until today, the May 3rd Constitution remains a timeless symbol of democratic aspirations, unity, resilience, and liberty for all.