Polish Women, Jewish Women: Emancipationists of Kraków

The project “Polish Women, Jewish Women – Krakow Emancipation Activists” is an educational and social initiative carried out by an association working to counter discrimination (in particular sexism and antisemitism) and to restore the memory of women’s historical activity in Krakow. The project’s activities focused on disseminating knowledge about the city’s emancipatory heritage and fostering attitudes of openness, equality, and intercultural dialogue.

The project responds to contemporary social challenges such as prejudice, exclusion, and the lack of women’s representation in historical narratives. Through educational and cultural activities, it strengthens participants’ social competences, develops historical awareness, and promotes democratic and equality-based values. It serves as an example of an expert approach to anti-discrimination education and work with cultural heritage.

The project was inspired by the activities of Krakow’s emancipation activists from the 18th to the 20th century—Polish and Jewish women who crossed cultural and religious boundaries in their pursuit of women’s independence in social, professional, political, and educational spheres. Their experiences became a starting point for reflection on the present day, as well as on the role of individuals and institutions in building a society based on equality and respect for diversity.

As part of the project, a wide-ranging program of activities was carried out, including open meetings, film screenings, workshops, and the educational series “Krakow Women’s Trail,” which presented the history of women connected with Krakow. A key outcome of the project was also the free publication “A Guide to Krakow of Emancipation Activists, Polish and Jewish Women,” containing both a historical section and materials related to anti-bias education.

The project was carried out under the patronage of the National Centre for Culture as part of the European Year of Intercultural Dialogue, as well as the honorary patronage of the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy. The initiative was implemented with the support of Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway through the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism, as well as with funds from the budget of the Republic of Poland under the Fund for Non-Governmental Organizations.