They are models of courageous, wise patriotism | Województwo Kujawsko-Pomorskie

The distinguished physicist and first democratically elected rector of Nicolaus Copernicus University, Prof. Stanisław Dembiński; underground democratic opposition activist, longtime parliamentarian, and president of the Kaszubsko-Pomorskie Association, Jan Wyrowiński; and Prof. Alicja Grześkowiak, lawyer, academic teacher, Catholic and independence activist, and Marshal of the Senate of the Republic of Poland from 1997 to 2001, received honorary citizenship of the city today (December 30) as conferred by the Toruń City Council. Marshal Piotr Całbecki participated in today’s ceremonial council session.

“The individuals honored today were and remain a guiding light for me, a model to emulate. I dare say that, in some sense, I continue their public mission, the mission of responsibility for Poland. I admire Professor Alicja Grześkowiak for her consistency in building the position and authority of the Senate as the upper parliamentary chamber. She was also my guide to John Paul II, whose role in Poland’s democratic transformation cannot be overstated. Thanks to Professor Grześkowiak, I had the opportunity to meet the Polish Pope in person.

I thank Professor Dembiński for representing Nicolaus Copernicus University here today, as well as the entire community of researchers who have always sought and defended the truth, even when it required real courage and determination. Marshal Jan Wyrowiński—a man who always followed the path of truth, always sought dialogue! I am glad that this legend is among us today!” said Marshal Piotr Całbecki in his closing remarks for the official part of the ceremony.

The ceremonial session took place on the 791st anniversary of Toruń being granted municipal rights. The event, celebrated in the grand interiors of Artus Court, gathered local government officials, parliamentarians, representatives of the central administration, academia, the Catholic Church, and the cultural community.

Beata Krzemińska

Spokesperson of the Marshal’s Office

December 30, 2024