"History Speaks Across Generations" – this is the motto of the Congress of National Remembrance which was held at the Kazimierz Górski National Stadium in Warsaw on 13—15 April 2023. It was the first event of this kind, offering those interested in Polish history numerous debates, games, exhibitions, workshops, new technology solutions, film screenings and much more.
For three days, Poland's most famous stadium hosted, among others, educators, historians, scholars , teachers, activists, veterans, youth, as well as bloggers, vloggers, writers, journalists and everyone for whom history and remembrance are important.
24 panel discussions, served as a means of presenting Poland's modern history in a way that appeals to every generation and caters to the needs of various audiences: from those who remember the difficult 20th century well, to young people, who now have the opportunity to find out about their past through new technologies, multimedia and engaging, fun activities.
The idea of presenting Polish history and national heritage in such a varied way to a wide audience is our response to the results of a social survey commissioned by the Institute of National Remembrance on Poles' historical knowledge and attitudes towards the past. The results of the "Education for Remembrance" report was presented at a press conference during the opening of the Congress.
We have also got a lot in store for the youngest generation. A theatrical performance entitled “Wojtek the Bear", a workshop called "Team Inka," and educational films were presented to our youngest guests. Thanks to the Institute's cooperation with reenactment groups, it was possible to see many historical vehicles and military uniforms.
With teenagers in mind, there was a New Technology Zone, equipped with computer stations and VR goggles, where they had an opportunity to try their luck at breaking Bolshevik codes ("The Cyphers Game") and entering a flat in a communist-era apartment building to uncover a clandestine print shop (the ”Szybowcowa ’87” app). Moreover, the participants of the ”Educational Historical Journey” learned about the history of the 20th century – from 1918 to the "Solidarity" era through quizzes, puzzles and reading out secret prison messages. There was also a board game tournament.
Young programmers competed in the Histhack during which they were challenged by the task of creating programs based on IPN materials under considerable time pressure.
The Congress also featured IPN exhibitions on contemporary history. The guests learned about the latest IPN multimedia, immersive exhibition being part of the "Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom" flagship project. The efforts of the Polish Armed Forces during World War II and the fate of civilians evacuated from the USSR with the army of General Władysław Anders were presented along with heroic deeds of Polish airmen in the Battle of Britain as well as soldiers from Tobruk, Narvik and Monte Cassino.
The "Echoes of Katyn" International Film Festival on Totalitarianism, organized by the IPN for the fourth time, was one of the highlights of the Congress. As every year, it was be an excellent opportunity to watch both Polish and foreign films dealing with topics related to totalitarian regimes and their impact on societies. The screenings were accompanied by panel discussions and meetings with filmmakers.
The event was held under the Honorary Patronage of the President of the Republic of Poland Andrzej Duda.
More information (Polish and English): kongrespamiecinarodowej.pl
Media contact:
IPN Spokesperson — Office Director: Rafał Leśkiewicz, Ph.D.
+48 602 322 362
rzecznik@ipn.gov.pl