For a Polish and British citizen living in Scotland, the day of 11th November is of special significance. It is our Independence Day in Poland remembering my country reappearing on the map of Europe in 1918 after 200 years of Russia, Germany and Austria’s partitions. It is a day also to reflect on things we have in common.
Our two nations share great history together, with many Scottish artists and traders migrating to Poland from 15th century. Main Polish migration started during the Second War after Poland capitulated and Polish arm forces were dissolved. I am sure the stories of Polish soldiers stationed in Scotland, or the brave Polish pilots from Squadron 303 are known to many Scots. There are frequent reminders of that presence – Polish soldiers’ mosaic on South Street in St Andrews, Wojtek the Bear monument at Princess Gardens in Edinburgh or the more famous Great Polish Map of Scotland at the Barony Castle near Peebles.
The sad moment after the war of Poland being made the bargain to Stalin is written on a dark page in history books. What many people in Scotland do not realize is that the Polish soldiers who fought in the Battle of Britain and subsequently returned to Poland after the war were treated as enemies of the communist state and often imprisoned or sent to Siberia.
Today there are many Polish people who live now in Scotland, especially after the migration when Poland joined the European Union – artists, scientists, business owners, carers, builders. And despite the Brexit many stayed in Scotland and contribute now to the Scottish society. Many are now part of Polish-Scottish families and will remain for generations to come. And it is a positive thing to remain here in the beautiful Scotland, to keep our history alive and sustain Scottish links with Europe.
