Member's Statement
Doug Martindale,
MLA, Burrows
29 November 2004
SOKOL POLISH FOLK ENSEMBLE
Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the Sokol Polish Folk Ensemble on its
90th anniversary.
The Sokol Polish Folk Ensemble is an enduring symbol of Winnipeg's cultural
diversity and of the vibrant Polish community that exists here in Manitoba.
The Sokol Polish Folk Ensemble consists of approximately 60 members, 40 of
which belong to the Sokol Choir and 20 of which belong to the Dance Ensemble.
Formed in 1914, the Folk Ensemble shares its roots with the Polish Gymnastic
Association Sokol which was established in 1906 by a small group of dedicated
Polish immigrants.
The Sokol Folk Ensemble is a dedicated group, proud to share their heritage
with people from around the world. Choir and dance members have received
numerous awards and recognition. In 1964, the choir won the prestigious Lord
Tweedsmuir Trophy at the Manitoba Music Festival. The choir also took three top
honours at the Festival of Polonia choirs in Koszalin, Poland, in 1976. Dance
members have travelled extensively throughout Canada and Poland, dazzling people
with their beautiful display of Polish singing and dancing.
The Sokol Polish Folk Ensemble is an important and vibrant part of Winnipeg's
multicultural community. Ensemble members are the featured attraction at the
Krakow Poland Pavilion at Folklorama, and have been since the beginning of this
festival in 1970. Next summer, the Ensemble will celebrate its 35th anniversary
participating in Folklorama. Songs and dances performed by Ensemble members
truly reflect the pride and love that they have for their heritage.
A special guest at the 90th anniversary banquet on November 26, 2004, was Mr.
Andrzej Krezel, Consulate for Polonia Issues in Toronto, representing the
Republic of Poland.
As the MLA for Burrows, I was also honoured to attend the 90th anniversary
ceremonies along with my wife Carol. I congratulate Krystyna Arndt, president of
the ensemble, and all the dancers and choir members, past and present, for their
commitment to cultural diversity of Manitoba. I wish the group continued
success in the future.
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