Polish Heritage Month Act, 2021, S.O. 2021, c. 37 - Bill 18

• Jurisdiction: Ontario
• Bill Number: 18
• Date: 09 December 2021

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Explanatory Note was written as a reader’s aid to Bill 18 and does not form part of the law. Bill 18 has been enacted as Chapter 37 of the Statutes of Ontario, 2021.

The Bill proclaims the month of May in each year as Polish Heritage Month.

chapter 37

An Act to proclaim the month of May as Polish Heritage Month

Assented to December 9, 2021

Preamble

Ontario is home to more than 523,000 people of Polish heritage. Polish Canadians have lived in Ontario since the 19th century and, over the years, have made significant contributions to Ontario’s society, economy, politics and culture.

May 3rd is widely celebrated by Polish people around the world to commemorate the 1791 Constitution, which is a symbol of Poland’s aspiration for freedom, democracy and independence. This is one of the most important Polish holidays and many parades and festivities take place in May.

By proclaiming the month of May as Polish Heritage Month, the Province of Ontario recognizes the impact that Polish Canadians have had on Ontario's history, culture and democratic institutions. Polish Heritage Month is an opportunity to educate Ontarians of all ages about the hardships and struggles that Polish Canadians have endured to live in a free and democratic society that respects human rights and the rule of law. These core values have contributed to the strength and diversity of Ontario.

Therefore Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Polish Heritage Month

1 The month of May in each year is proclaimed as Polish Heritage Month.

Commencement

2 This Act comes into force on the day it...