https://doi.org/10.31261/PS_P.2026.37.16
The article presents an analysis of the status of the Polish language within the multilingual environment of New York City and its position among the most used languages spoken by the residents of New York State. The rationale for undertaking this topic stems from the growing significance of migration, assimilation, and integration processes, which influence the condition of minority languages, including the Polish language and the Polish immigrant community residing in New York City. The article discusses the functioning of the Polish language in the context of the dominance of English, existing language policies, and the evolving cultural identity of the Polish diaspora in New York. The main arguments suggest that, despite the declining number of speakers and the progressive assimilation of younger generations, the Polish language continues to play a significant role in maintaining ethnic identity. At the same time, its survival depends on institutional support and its presence in everyday life, particularly within the family and educational settings. The research methodology is based on the analysis of statistical data (census records and institutional reports), a review of the relevant literature, and the author’s own research conducted among the Polish diaspora in New York over the course of two decades. The findings indicate a decreasing number of individuals declaring Polish ancestry, as well as the growing dominance of the English language among younger generations. The article contributes to the fields of sociolinguistic and migration studies, drawing on theories of bilingualism, ethnicity, and the preservation of minority languages within diaspora communities.
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Vol. 37 No. 1 (2026)
Published: 2026-07-13
10.31261/PS_P
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
English
Język Polski