On Wednesday, February 13, 2019, AOH National Board President Judge James McKay, National Treasurer Sean Pender and National Director Dan Dennehy had an unforgettable meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at the Oireachtas Éireann. The Oireachtas is the legislative body of the Republic of Ireland. It consists of the Office of the President of Ireland and its two houses: the Dáil Éireann (lower house) and Seanad Éireann (upper house). The houses of the Oireachtas sit in Leinster House in Dublin. The opportunity to meet with the Taoiseach was arranged by Senator Billy Lawless, … [Read more...] about National Board Officers Meet with Irish Leaders
News
Irish American Heritage Month, Less Than A Month Away
We are a little over a month away from March and Irish American Heritage Month. Recent events have indicated that we as an Order must commit to promoting our Irish American Heritage. It has recently been in the news that two AOH-sponsored parades have been canceled due to their local government’s billing them for services such as security and sanitation connected with the parade. If you will permit me a slight editorial, we are in a sad state indeed when our local municipalities do not see the need to support our communities coming together in positive celebration. Such shortsighted economics … [Read more...] about Irish American Heritage Month, Less Than A Month Away
AOH/LAOH Delegation Meets with Border Communities Against Brexit
A delegation of forty AOH and LAOH members met with the group known as Border Communities Against Brexit in Newry, the city referred to as the "Gateway to the North" on the border of County Armagh and County Down. The encounter followed a discussion at Dromintee Gaelic Athletic Club, as part of the first stop on the delegation's Freedom For All Ireland Tour of Ireland. A panel including National President, Judge James McKay, National Freedom for All Ireland (FFAI) Martin Galvin, and Border Cross-Community leaders Damien McGenity, Declan Fearon, and John Sheridan discussed the impact … [Read more...] about AOH/LAOH Delegation Meets with Border Communities Against Brexit
Hibernians Ask Amazon to Accord the Irish the Same Respect Shown Others
Following the recent announcement that Amazon has removed items deemed offensive to members of the Islamic Community, the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) repeat their earlier calls that Amazon similarly remove items perpetuating defaming Irish stereotypes. In a letter to Amazon, Nation Anti-Defamation Chairman Neil Cosgrove writes: "As an organization founded to combat religious and ethnic bigotry, the Hibernians applaud Amazon’s recent decision in response to the request of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) to remove items deemed offensive to Muslim Americans; no one … [Read more...] about Hibernians Ask Amazon to Accord the Irish the Same Respect Shown Others
Ask Your Congressional Representative to Support H.Res.88 and Say “No” to a Hard Border
As you no doubt aware from the news, the prospect that Britain’s decision to pursue Brexit will result in a hard border in Ireland is increasing daily. The consequence to the people of Ireland, north and south, cannot be understated. The past two decades as seen the artificial walls of mistrust that were constructed to further special interest slowly being replace by bridges of peace and understanding. A hard border in Ireland would wind back the clock nearly a hundred years and threatens the peace and prosperity of the entire island. Congressman Brendan Boyle has introduce a resolution, … [Read more...] about Ask Your Congressional Representative to Support H.Res.88 and Say “No” to a Hard Border
Catholic Action – February Update
To All Hibernians: In February, we are in a segment of Ordinary Time between Christmas and the Lenten season. The liturgical color is green. MAJOR SAINTS AND FEAST DAYS OF FEBRUARY February 2 The Presentation of the Lord Feast February 5 Agatha, Virgin and Martyr Memorial February 6 Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs Memorial February 14 Cyril, Monk, and Methodius, Bishop Memorial February 21 Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor Memorial February 22 Chair of Peter, Apostle Feast February 23 Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr Memorial IRISH SAINTS OF … [Read more...] about Catholic Action – February Update
AOH Joins Pro-Life March In Washington
The pipes were calling on Constitution Avenue during the annual March for Life as Hibernians from across the nation gathered to stand witness for the unborn. At the urging of President McKay, this year's contingent were led by two of our Pennsylvania brothers playing the bagpipes. Additionally the new national banners, introduced by National Organizer Tim McSweeney in Louisville, helped make the Hibernians a recognizable presence to those in attendance or watching live on EWTN. Special thanks is due to Frs. Henry Reid (NY), John Hurley (DC) and Deacon Stephen Mitchell (DC) for celebrating … [Read more...] about AOH Joins Pro-Life March In Washington
KING-NEAL-DOYLE BACK BALLYMURPHY JUSTICE
Three key Congressional leaders on Irish issues, Peter King, Richard Neal and Michael Doyle, sent a bipartisan letter to British Ambassador Kim Darroch, citing the crucial implications of the Ballymurphy Inquest for all Troubles legacy issues. The three Congressmen acted after meeting Carmel Quinn during her multi-state American tour representing the Ballymurphy Campaign and Relatives for Justice. This letter is the latest sign of growing American focus on Ballymurphy, spearheaded by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, along with of the Irish American Unity Conference and Brehon Law … [Read more...] about KING-NEAL-DOYLE BACK BALLYMURPHY JUSTICE
Let Our Pride in Our Heritage be a Candle in the Window
One of the most beloved Irish Christmas traditions is “The Candle in the Window.” The popular story behind this tradition is that a candle is placed in the window as a light to guide Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and as a sign that they would be welcomed if they wish to break their journey at this home. It is a beautiful sentiment, and if it were for just this alone, it would be worth preserving. However, there is a sadder and darker history behind the tradition. It goes back to the time of the English Penal Laws in Ireland where Catholicism was proscribed and to be Irish a crime. In dark rural … [Read more...] about Let Our Pride in Our Heritage be a Candle in the Window
DECEMBER FFAI 2018 BULLETIN
A chairde: FFAI ISSUES UPDATE A- Ballymurphy Massacre Inquest opens- Forty-seven years after the Ballymurphy Massacre, new Inquests opened in Belfast, as family members of the 11 victims, many holding hands, witnessed the proceedings. The Inquest was technically limited to the 10 victims shot dead by British troopers between August 9th-11th,1971 in the Ballymurphy section of Belfast. However, as the Coroner's representative, it also covered the killing of Paddy McCarthy, who died of a heart attack after being subjected to a mock execution. The Inquest began with statements by … [Read more...] about DECEMBER FFAI 2018 BULLETIN
Advent Reflections
With election season over and the turkey carved, we can finally turn to Advent. As our minds stumble over gift lists, our hearts beat with hopeful anticipation as body and soul begin preparations for the Christ Child. I know you’ve all felt it before, the magnetic pull to the manger. It terrifies and exhilarates in equal measure, you fight between the urge to rush forward or sink to your knees. Why, why this child? He seems no different than any other; the circumstances of His birth leave much to be desired, then and now. Yet instinctively we know that within His hands lies the whole world, … [Read more...] about Advent Reflections
Catholic Action – December Update
To All Hibernians: After spending many weeks in the liturgical cycle of Ordinary Time, in December we begin a new liturgical year with the first Sunday of Advent (December 2) and pass through the liturgical season of Advent into that of Christmas. Advent represents the time of preparation for the coming of the Savior. The liturgical color, representative of repentance and humility, is violet, except on the Third Sunday of Advent, traditionally known as Gaudete Sunday, when the color rose represents the joy of approaching the Christmas season. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, … [Read more...] about Catholic Action – December Update
Irish American Heritage Museum Honors Tom McNabb
11/30/18 - Colonie NY Tom McNabb's legacy reached far beyond his service to the AOH. The Irish American Heritage Museum was one of the organizations that benefited from Tom's hard work and commitment. The Museum recently honored Tom at their annual Gov. Hugh Carey Gala. Pictured is Liam McNabb accepting the award from Museum Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth Stack. … [Read more...] about Irish American Heritage Museum Honors Tom McNabb
Call to Action: Call for the Speedy Confirmation of Edward Crawford as Ambassador to Ireland
Brothers, It has been 676 days since the US has had an Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland. In that time, over seventy ambassadorial appointments have been made. It is simply unacceptable given the historic relationship between the United States and Ireland and the countless contributions of Ireland’s sons and daughters to America that this post has been vacant so long. Additionally, in this time of Brexit it is in America’s best interest to strengthen its ties to Ireland as, with the departure of England, it will be the only predominantly English speaking country in … [Read more...] about Call to Action: Call for the Speedy Confirmation of Edward Crawford as Ambassador to Ireland
Ballymurphy Massacre Campaign for Justice Concludes
Stating, “the Ballymurphy Massacre families need American help in their 47-year battle for justice”, Carmel Quinn, a sister of one of 11 victims of the massacre, John Laverty, concluded a five-state American tour sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The tour came on the heels of the attacks by 150 Tory MPs and British Prime Minister Theresa May who are desperate to discredit investigations of British forces for ‘Troubles’ killings in the north of Ireland. Carmel Quinn, who is also a member of Relatives for Justice, met with U.S. Senators and Members of Congress asking for help in … [Read more...] about Ballymurphy Massacre Campaign for Justice Concludes
Catholic Action – November Update
In November, we conclude Ordinary time for the liturgical year with the Feast of Christ the King on the last Sunday of the month (Nov. 25). November is a month to remember the departed, especially on All Souls' Day (Nov. 2). The Solemnity of All Saints (Nov. 1) is a holy day of obligation. Thanksgiving Day falls on November 22. NOTABLE SAINTS, SOLEMNITIES, AND FEAST DAYS November 1All SaintsSolemnity November 9Dedication of Saint John LateranFeast November 10Leo the Great, Pope and DoctorMemorial November 15Albert the Great, Bishop and Doctor November 17Elizabeth of … [Read more...] about Catholic Action – November Update
Hypocrisy of Former Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers
New City, New York – 10/31/2018– The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) The Ancient Order of Hibernians shares the world’s concern on recent developments in Sri Lanka. The recent sacking of Sri Lanka's prime minister and his replacement with a man accused of human rights violations committed during that country’s civil war poses a threat to the search for justice for the victims of those heinous acts. However, the Hibernians cannot help but simultaneously note the outrageous hypocrisy in former Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers’ calls for pressure to be brought to … [Read more...] about Hypocrisy of Former Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers
Carmel Quinn Ballymurphy Massacre Appeal
FREEDOM FOR ALL IRELAND October 28,2018 Saying "the 'Ballymurphy Massacre' families need American help in their 47 year battle for justice", Carmel Quinn, a sister of one of 11 victims John Laverty, will begin a five state American tour as the Inquest opens in Belfast. The tour follows attacks by 150 Tory MPs and British Prime Minister Theresa May aimed at discrediting investigations of British forces for 'Troubles' killings in the north of Ireland. A founding member of the 'Ballymurphy Massacre' Campaign and member of Relatives for Justice, Carmel Quinn will ask for American help at … [Read more...] about Carmel Quinn Ballymurphy Massacre Appeal
President Donald J. Trump to Nominate Edward F. Crawford of Ohio, to be Ambassador to Ireland
This from ... The White House - Office of the Press Secretary - Oct 22, 2018 President Donald J. Trump Announces Intent to Nominate to Key Administration Posts Edward F. Crawford of Ohio, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Ireland. Mr. Crawford currently serves as Chairman and CEO of the Edward Crawford Group and Park-Ohio Industries, Inc. He is the recipient of the Northeast Ohio Business Hall of Fame Entrepreneurial Award, and the Small Business Administration Man of the Year-Ohio Award. He served the Specialist Aviation Company, … [Read more...] about President Donald J. Trump to Nominate Edward F. Crawford of Ohio, to be Ambassador to Ireland
OCTOBER FFAI 2018 BULLETIN
A chairde: FFAI ISSUES UPDATE A-Bradley admits sent to rule with no clue about north Karen Bradley, picked by Prime Minister Theresa May to administer British rule in the six counties, said she had no understanding of the north when picked for the post. Bradley made her frank admissions to House magazine, a weekly parliamentary magazine giving Westminster MPs puff piece interviews. Bradley confessed she had did not understand basic facts of the north's politics, elections and deep-rooted issues saying it was all "a very different world from the world I come from." She said: "I … [Read more...] about OCTOBER FFAI 2018 BULLETIN