Podlaskie – Multicultural Melting Pot: We Have Lived Here Together for Centuries

Senior Fellow Karolina Sacha was fascinated by the multicultural history and tradition of the region where she was born and lives (Podlasie, Poland). In 2010, Karolina developed a project for teachers from all over Poland, to inspire them to generate new ideas for educational activities addressed to young people, covering the diversity in Poland.

For a couple of days, teachers took part in a workshop in Podlasie, during which they had a chance to meet representatives of minorities who still adhere to their traditions, visit important historical and cultural sites and see for themselves how unique  the region is — which has become somewhat of a symbol of the former multicultural Poland.

Classroom scenarios developed jointly by the teachers were then tested, and their authors created an informal group of educators who disseminate knowledge about multiculturalism not only with regard to history, but also to contemporary times. Thanks to this, action against stereotypes and prejudices against various minority groups may be more effective.