The Saint

Photo by freestocks.org on Pexels.com 

Story by News Editor Grace Wilson

America’s cultural identity is centered around the idea of a melting pot of cultures from across the world. This identity is abundantly clear in Grand Rapids, MI, a city known for holding festivals throughout the year celebrating different cultural heritages for its citizens and those in the surrounding areas. However, a vital piece of Polish heritage in Grand Rapids is on the brink of closure.

Jackson Street Hall, located at 921 Jackson St. NW, is one of 14 current Polish Halls in the city. At 135 years old it is the oldest Polish Hall in the country. The Hall was built in 1888 as the new center for the Polish National Aid Society to help Polish immigrants adjust to their new lives and find new jobs in Grand Rapids. Yet with its old age comes additional challenges.

The Hall, while a staple of Grand Rapids Polish culture, has not been updated since the 1940s. Much of the building needs renovations and restorations yet there is not enough money to accomplish what needs to be completed. 

There are several explanations for the lack of funds. On top of the impact that COVID-19 had on businesses around the world, the street where the Hall was located has also been under construction. Grand Rapids has been undergoing construction on streets and sidewalks for several years, and for the past several months Jackson Street has been completely shut down. This has led to less foot traffic and use of the hall, slashing funding and donations to help with the general upkeep of the building. 

If you or someone you know would like to support Jackson Street Hall, there are many ways you can get involved. First, you could donate to the Hall and its restoration fund. Even if you cannot donate, spreading the word to the Grand Rapids community is just as important. You could also volunteer to help with the fundraising or restoration efforts. Additionally, attend the Polish events around the city! Pulaski Days will run from Oct. 6-8 during the fall of 2023. While there, you can learn about Polish culture abroad and in the United States.

If we all do our part, we can work towards saving an important part of U.S. and Polish history in our very own city!