Honoring the life and legacy of Tadeusz Kosciuszko

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Addabbo and 62 co-sponsors

The bill ceremonially recognizes Kosciuszko’s contributions to American independence and the ideals of liberty, equality, and education.

ADOPTED

Summary of Bill J 1862 (2025-2026) – New York

Purpose and Intent

The bill is a Senate Resolution honoring the life and legacy of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, a Polish general, engineer, and revolutionary who contributed to American independence and the promotion of liberty, equality, and education.

It recognizes Kosciuszko’s voluntary service in the American Revolution, his engineering leadership (notably at Saratoga and West Point), his advocacy for liberty and equality, and his support for emancipation and education.

Key Provisions

Formal recognition by the New York Legislature of Kosciuszko’s exemplary service and enduring values.

A ceremonial declaration that pays tribute to his contributions to American independence and to the principles of liberty and equality.

Directive to transmit copies of the resolution to specific organizations and entities in New York:

Albany Polish Community Center
Dobra Polska Szkola Foundation
Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York
Members of the Polish American community of New York

Who/What is Affected

Governmental and civic recognition by the New York State Senate.

Polish American communities and related cultural, educational, and consular organizations in New York.

The broader public through the promotion of Kosciuszko’s legacy of liberty, equality, and education.

Procedural/Timeline Details

Action history:

Referred to Finance on 2025 (noted as 2026-04-10 in the record)
Adopted and reported to calendar for consideration on 2026-04-21
Adopted on 2026-04-21

The resolution is a ceremonial/symbolic measure rather than substantive statutory change; it does not create new programs or funding, but it may accompany future commemorative events or educational initiatives.

Notable Context from the Text

Kosciuszko’s notable contributions:

Volunteered for the American Revolution at age 30 in 1776.
Served as an engineer and officer appointed by the Continental Congress.
Key roles in Saratoga siege preparations and fortifications at Bemis Heights.
Directed fortifications at West Point and engineered measures such as the Hudson River chain, contributing to West Point’s enduring strategic significance.
Promoted to Brigadier General in 1783; granted American citizenship, land, and compensation.
Advocate for liberty and equality; encouraged emancipation and education; entrusted his American estate to Thomas Jefferson to support these causes.

Practical Impact

Raises public awareness and honors a historic figure associated with American independence and democratic ideals.

Strengthens ties between New York’s Polish American community and the state government.

May inform future commemorative events, educational programs, or cultural exchanges related to Kosciuszko’s legacy.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary for a policy brief, a briefing memo for constituents, or a quick one-page handout.