Immigration

I hope everyone had an enjoyable, productive Irish American Heritage Month, particularly our Feast of Saint Patrick celebrations nationwide.

            My family and I attended the St. Patrick’s Day Mass for the New York Fighting 69th Regiment at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This event honors the Grand Marshal and Hibernian Aides from Metropolitan New York. Concelebrated by Cardinal Timothy Dolan and other clergy, the Mass featured a moving homily from Archbishop Eamon Martin, who traveled from Armagh, County Tyrone, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church in Ireland.

            The Primate of Ireland’s visits are rare. On March 16, Archbishop Martin visited St. Barnabas Parish in Woodlawn; like his legendary predecessor, Archbishop Tomas O’Fiaich, Martin met with AOH National leaders and held a community reception. Woodlawn is home to AOH Woodlawn Division 5 of Bronx County.

            Archbishop Martin spoke about the desperate Irish who arrived in New York during An Gorta Mór with little more than the clothes on their backs. Despite their hardships, they held onto great hope forged in adversity and grounded in the same strong faith that had inspired Saint Patrick centuries earlier to persevere. He remarked, “It’s no wonder so many Irish people and their descendants played pivotal roles in building the great city of New York, serving as leaders in their parishes and communities, as well as in business, education, healthcare, law and emergency services.” He emphasized that the responsibility to strive for better lives for future generations rests firmly on our shoulders.

            After the Mass, I had the chance to thank Archbishop Martin for sharing his hopeful message. In the spirit of his inspiring words, I want to emphasize the AOH’s priority regarding immigration in 2025. We aim to educate and inform our fellow members and legislators, encourage the hiring and support of Irish immigrants, put an end to visa denials for Irish individuals seeking U.S. visas — particularly for residents of Northern Ireland and Irish artists — and contribute to the celebrations and commemorations of the USA’s 250th anniversary, which will highlight the Irish contribution to America.

            Please watch the AOH webinar, Obtaining Irish Citizenship and Passports. Hosted by the Consulate General of Ireland NY and the Irish American Baseball Society and presented by President Sean Pender and myself, it is filled with excellent information about the documents, requirements and benefits of Irish citizenship and passports. The video can be found on www.aoh.com or Ancient Order of Hibernian YouTube using the title Obtaining Irish Citizenship Webinar.

            You can locate a local Irish Immigration Center at www.ciic-usa.org. Your involvement at these centers is encouraged, and I urge everyone to participate for mutual benefit.