I'd like to begin this post by saying that Professor Władysław Bartoszewski is a figure who needs no introduction. This isn't so obvious, however, and while I don't intend to describe his colorful and rich biography here, I will allow myself a few words. Suffice it to say that he was an activist in the Polish Underground State, an active member of the Council for Aid to Jews, a participant in the Warsaw Uprising, and throughout the communist era, a leading journalist and opposition activist, repeatedly persecuted by the government for his work. He maintained contacts with intellectuals around the world, and in free Poland, he also served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador to Austria, Senator, and Senior Marshal. These are just a few examples. Throughout his life, he was active in education and history, with particular emphasis on the period of German occupation. For a detailed biography, I recommend Wikipedia—there's a very good article there .
What is Władysław Bartoszewski doing on our website?
He rides a bike. Or rather, he will, and in place, at that. And it's a monument. Most monuments are overwhelming stone monuments in proud poses. I don't think any of us are fond of such things, regardless of our assessment of the figures depicted. But here, it's different. The idea arose to create a monument to the Professor, a complete contrast to the heroic granite. The project is based on the photo you see above. Young Władysław Bartoszewski, recently returned from the Auschwitz concentration camp, is still recovering, and is already active in the structures of "Żegota" – a humanitarian organization helping Jews in the ghetto. The photo is posed, yet it has a lot of charm, even a certain disorientation – Bartoszewski never learned to ride a bike. However, we believe that this is precisely what gives it its inspiring power and naturalness. We see a person here, not a collection of titles and achievements.
The monument will be erected in the Professor's square on Ogrodowa Street. This is a symbolic location, as Biała Street ran through it. This is where aid organizations led Jews out of the ghetto and to freedom, as well as provided aid. However, this won't happen without your help.
Everything is on track
The initiative is organized by the Social Committee and the Władysław Bartoszewski Square Association. They are collaborating with the Warto być Przyzwotym Association, which has already erected a monument to the Professor in Sopot. The monument's design was approved on April 15, 2021, by the Warsaw City Council, the Conservator's Office, and the Faculty of Architecture. However, he won't stand alone, so a public fundraising campaign has been launched. You can find it at this link , and the funds raised will be allocated entirely to the construction of the monument. We encourage you to contribute, even if only symbolically.
On February 19th, a Decency Rally will be held at Władysław Bartoszewski Square to commemorate the Professor's centennial. Everyone is welcome, preferably by bike. 1 p.m.! See you there?! Let's show that being decent is worth it.
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