The Day of Struggle and Martyrdom of the Polish Villages is observed in Poland every July 12 to commemorate the 1943 Michniów massacre, where German forces executed numerous villagers as part of their campaign against the Polish resistance during World War II. This day, established in 2017 and first observed in 2018, honors the contributions of Polish villagers who supported the resistance, assisted refugees, and provided aid to those in hiding. The Michniów massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 95 men, two women, and five children on the initial day, followed by the murder of 102 more residents the next day, exemplifies the brutal repression faced by rural communities. The observance also acknowledges the sacrifices of villagers across Poland who were victims of similar atrocities, including those in Volhynia and Eastern Galicia. Activities typically include remembrance events and ceremonies to honor the memory of those lost during these tragic events.