December 15, 2008

Dear Members of the Polish American Congress and Polonia:

Today I received a personal telephone call from Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter regarding the Polish jokes he delivered during a luncheon in New York City. Senator Specter told me that he regrets these inappropriate statements referencing the Polish people and asked that I offer his sincere apology to the Polish American community. Senator Specter himself traces his family history to Eastern Europe. He said he understands that the remarks were unnecessary and offensive and that this incident brings about another opportunity for all Americans to be more conscience and respectful of the accomplishments which continue to be made by all groups that make up the great ethnic mosaic of America.

During my conversation with Senator Specter, he said that he prepared an apology letter and asked that I forward this letter to all members of the Polish American community and that they forward it to family members and friends.