Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim in Przemyśl celebrates 120 years

The Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim (National or People’s Home) in Przemyśl is celebrating its 120th anniversary since its founding. Built in 1904, the center has been a hub of cultural activity for the Ukrainian community in the Polish border town for more than 100 years.

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) congratulates the Association of Ukrainians in Poland (AUP), the entire staff of the Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim and the local Ukrainian community on this anniversary.

“The Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim is a landmark place for every Ukrainian who has been to Przemyśl at least once. The UWC and our member organizations have repeatedly held their meetings there, highlighting the importance of this historical building for Ukrainians worldwide,” said UWC President Paul Grod.

The Narodnyi Dim was built in the early 20th century with funds from the Ukrainian community, and numerous cultural societies have operated within its walls, along with many prominent Ukrainian cultural figures performing there. 

“Despite historical challenges, including the nationalization of the Narodnyi Dim in 1947 as a result of the [World War II era] Vistula Operation, the Ukrainian community has never lost hope and continued to work towards its return,” Grod continued.

In 2011, the UWC contributed to having the Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim handed over back to the Ukrainian community. “And we are proud of that,” the UWC President said.

Today, the renovated Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim stands as a symbol of effectiveness and unity. 

“During the full-scale Russian invasion, it opened its doors to thousands of women and children forced to flee the war, and it serves as a place for numerous meetings, cultural and artistic projects, as well as the active work of the AUP Przemyśl branch,” Grod stated.

The UWC President thanked Ukrainians in Poland for their dedicated efforts to preserve their Ukrainian national heritage and to bring Ukraine closer to victory, and he wished the Ukrainian Narodnyi Dim in Przemyśl many years of future prosperity.