"History Speaks Across Generations" – this is the motto of the Congress of National Remembrance which will be held at the Kazimierz Górski National Stadium in Warsaw on 13—15 April 2023. It is 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 will host, 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, will serve 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 will be presented at a press conference during the opening of the Congress. We will further talk about what modern, attractive historical education ought to be based on.
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 are all awaiting our youngest guests. Thanks to the Institute's cooperation with reenactment groups, it will be possible to see many historical vehicles and military uniforms.
With teenagers in mind, there will be a New Technology Zone, equipped with computer stations and VR goggles, where they will have 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” will be able to learn about the history of the 20th century – from 1918 to the "Solidarity" era through quizzes, puzzles and reading out secret prison messages. There will also be a board game tournament.
Young programmers will compete in the Histhack during which they will be challenged by the task of creating programs based on IPN materials under considerable time pressure.
The Congress will also feature IPN exhibitions on contemporary history. We encourage you to get familiar with the latest IPN multimedia, immersive exhibition being part of the "Trails of Hope. The Odyssey of Freedom" flagship project. We present 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. We recall 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, will most definitely constitute one of the highlights of the Congress. As every year, it will 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 will be accompanied by panel discussions and meetings with filmmakers.
The event is going to be held under the Honorary Patronage of the President of the Republic of Poland Andrzej Duda.
More information (Polish): kongrespamiecinarodowej.pl
Media contact:
IPN Spokesperson — Office Director: Rafał Leśkiewicz, Ph.D.
+48 602 322 362
rzecznik@ipn.gov.pl