#Solidaritown
8-9 October 2024
The Autokreacja Foundation, in collaboration with the Municipality of Gorlice Community, hosted the third meeting of the „Solidaritown – Solidarity Across Towns” project. This event proved to be particularly intense and fruitful.
Solidarity and interculturalism in municipality
On the first day, participants were welcomed by the Mayor of the Municipality of Gorlice, Jan Przybylski, the Deputy Mayor, Magdalena Czech, and the Chairman of the Municipal Council, Mieczysław Skowron. The hosts introduced the guests to the wealth of the region, its tourist attractions, the local brand „Karpating,” the annual Christmas market, and the latest investments. Given the current situation in the region and the ongoing war in Ukraine, the municipality also showcased its efforts toward integration and solidarity with Ukraine.
Intercultural workshop
The central theme of the meeting was solidarity, diversity, and multicultural dialogue in Europe. The Beskid Gorlicki region, a historical crossroads of various cultures, was a fitting backdrop for these discussions. Participants had the opportunity to visit the Pogórzańska Village Museum and the B.I. Antonycz Cultural Center, dedicated to Lemko culture. It is worth noting that one of the most famous descendants of the Lemkos was Andy Warhol, who spoke Lemko with his mother at home.
At the Pogórzańska Museum, attendees also sampled traditional regional cuisine, emphasizing the role of food as a carrier of culture and tradition. Representatives from different nationalities and cultures reflected together on the value of multiculturalism and the significance of solidarity in today’s world.
Open forum
About European main policies and strategies
The second day began with an open forum focused on European policies and strategies regarding cultural integration, dialogue, and migration. The Mayor of Gorlice, Rafał Kukla, joined the discussion. The forum was preceded by presentations reviewing migration policies at both national and regional levels.
Study visits
As part of expanding their knowledge of the region, participants visited the Gorlice Museum, where they were reminded of one of the largest battles of World War I, which took place near Gorlice. Many soldiers of various nationalities are buried here, giving the region significant historical importance. During the visit, it was also mentioned that the first kerosene lamp, invented by Ignacy Łukasiewicz, was lit in Gorlice. Additionally, John D. Rockefeller once studied oil refining in this area, which later contributed to building one of the wealthiest family dynasties in history.
Another highlight of the program was a visit to the Bielanka73 Gallery, where participants admired the work of a local artist inspired by the region’s diversity. Bielanka itself is an excellent example of harmonious coexistence between different cultures and religions. To conclude, the group visited the local agritourism farm „Skrawek Nieba,” renowned for its regional products, and the municipality’s latest investment—the observation tower in Dominikowice, built at the request of local residents.
The meeting provided an opportunity to deepen knowledge about the region and exchange experiences on the importance of multiculturalism and solidarity in Europe. We look forward to the next gatherings as part of the CERV (Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values) initiative.
DISCLAIMER: Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
