Pokonamy

Pokonamy is a Polish slogan meaning “we will overcome” or “we will defeat,” widely used in political, social, and cultural discourse in Poland. The form derives from the verb pokonać (to defeat, to overcome) with the first-person plural future tense pokonamy.

Usage and context: The slogan functions as an expression of resilience and solidarity. It is employed by campaign organizers, community groups, charities, and media campaigns to signal determination in the face of challenges, such as elections, economic hardship, or public health crises. It appears on banners, posters, social media messages, and protest placards. Because it is a generic expression rather than a specific organization, its use can be found across diverse groups and viewpoints.

Reception and interpretation: As a concise, forward-looking phrase, pokonamy is often interpreted as a call to collective effort and unity. Critics may view it as rhetorical or polarizing depending on the context, while supporters may see it as motivating.

Origins and variations: The phrase has long been part of the Polish language and is used in various compound forms, such as pokonamy razem ("we will overcome together") or pokonamy to wyzwanie ("we will overcome this challenge").

Impact: The slogan has appeared in cultural productions, political campaigns, and social initiatives, contributing to a shared narrative of resilience in Polish public life.