This Aktywny Dialog workshop, held on 15 November 2025 at the Polish Saturday School in Loughborough, offered young learners an important introduction to the history of the 1940–41 Soviet deportations of Polish citizens to Siberia.
Taking place during the 85th anniversary of these tragic events, the session helped students understand the experiences of the Sybiracy families torn from their homes, transported in freezing cattle wagons, and forced into brutal labour under Russian aggression. Through age‑appropriate storytelling, discussion, and creative activities, the workshop encouraged children to reflect on resilience, identity, and the importance of preserving historical truth.
The day was made even more meaningful as it coincided with a beautiful celebration of Polish Independence Day. Under the warm leadership of Pani Ania, Director of the Polish Saturday School in Loughborough, the event brought together music, pride, and community spirit. It was a joy to sing, to listen, and to witness the children performing with such heart — their voices, poems, and songs reminding us how deeply rooted and resilient our heritage is.
Seeing the young generation honour Polish history while learning about the suffering of the Sybiracy created a powerful bridge between past and present. The stories shared, the traditions celebrated, and the unity felt throughout the day highlighted the strength of the Polish community and the importance of passing these memories forward.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Pani Ania and the entire team of the Polish Saturday School for creating such a meaningful and uplifting celebration. 💖 Grateful to everyone who made it happen. 🇵🇱✨ Dziękujemy!
Podziękowania (PL)
Ogromne podziękowania dla Polskiej Sobotniej Szkoły w Loughborough za dzisiejsze piękne obchody Święta Niepodległości Polski. To była ogromna radość być częścią wydarzenia pełnego muzyki, dumy i ducha wspólnoty. Widok występujących dzieci, opowiadane historie i wspólne przeżywanie tradycji przypomniały nam, jak silne i odporne jest nasze dziedzictwo. 💖 Wdzięczna wszystkim, którzy przyczynili się do jego realizacji.
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#AktywnyDialog #AktywnyDialogPoland #PolishIndependenceDay #LoughboroughPolska #PolishSaturdaySchool #DzieńNiepodległości #PolskaDuma #CommunityCelebration #PolishCulture #ThankYou #PolishHeritage #Polska #LoughboroughEvents #PolishTraditions #KulturaPolska #PolishPride #PolishUK #ŚwiętoNiepodległości #Sybiracy #85Rocznica #DeportacjeNaSybir #HistoryMatters
In cooperation with Aktywny Dialog Poland