US anniversary campaign seeks stories of Irish immigrants

As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, a new initiative is inviting Americans to share their stories and document the significant role of Irish immigrants and their descendants in shaping the nation. The campaign, Irish America 250, has launched a website, americaeire.org, to collect written and video submissions.

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There's a critique out there that Joe Biden was the last great chieftain of Irish America. I think what this project specifically shows is that there is a new generation, a new world of Irish America, which is emerging 21st century.

With over 30 million Americans tracing their roots to Ireland, the project seeks to build a living digital archive. Organizers aim to capture the diverse journeys, histories, and contributions of the Irish diaspora. The initiative encourages both those of Irish ancestry and Irish-born immigrants to contribute, creating a comprehensive portrait of the Irish in America as the nation reflects on its founding ideals and ongoing pursuit of democracy.

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The last 250 years have been the story of a very often kind of forced migration. [This] marks the beginning of a new chapter in Irish America, which is open, diverse, optional.

Lead historian Professor Darragh Gannon highlighted the project's significance in capturing a changing Irish American identity. He noted a potential shift away from a solely political focus, suggesting a "new chapter in Irish America, which is open, diverse, optional." Gannon pointed to contemporary figures in culture and arts, such as actors Paul Mescal, Cillian Murphy, Barry Keoghan, and Saoirse Ronan, whose lives bridge Ireland and America, as examples of this evolving narrative. This new understanding emphasizes creativity and cultural influence.

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It's not defined necessarily by high politics, but by culture, by entrepreneurship, by a story of a success story of migration.

Kevin Sullivan, founder of Irish America 250, addressed perceptions of an aging Irish American community. "We wish to announce we aren't quite dead yet," he stated, emphasizing the initiative's goal to showcase a vibrant and continuing presence. The non-partisan effort, led by a national committee from various sectors, aims to present a forward-looking perspective on Irish America during this significant national milestone.

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We wish to announce we aren't quite dead yet.