Kocievians

Kocievians (also Kocieviańs) refers to the inhabitants or people associated with the historical and geographical region of Kociewie in northern Poland. Kociewie is a cultural region with its own distinct dialect, traditions, and identity. Therefore, Kocievians are those who identify with and are native to this region.

The term encompasses individuals of various backgrounds and occupations who share a common connection to Kociewie. This connection can be based on birth, ancestry, residence, or cultural affiliation.

The Kociewie region is primarily located in the southern part of the Pomeranian Voivodeship, with parts also extending into the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship. Major towns in Kociewie include Starogard Gdański, Tczew, and Świecie, although the region's boundaries are not strictly defined administratively, but rather culturally.

The Kociewie dialect, which differs from standard Polish, is an important part of Kocievians' cultural heritage. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote the dialect and other aspects of Kociewian culture, including traditional crafts, music, and folklore.