[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 55 (Wednesday, March 24, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S1764]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

  Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, today I wish to commemorate Irish-American 
Heritage Month and the many contributions of Irish immigrants to the 
United States of America. The Irish have been a part of our country 
since its foundation. Donegal-born Richard Montgomery was the first 
American general to lose his life in the Revolutionary War. Especially 
during the 19th and early 20th centuries, many Irish immigrants came to 
America to escape religious persecution, famine, and economic hardship, 
and to seek new opportunities for themselves and their families.
  Maryland's long tradition of religious tolerance provided safe haven 
for many Irish Catholics fleeing religious persecution as early as the 
17th century. Maryland again became a leading destination for the Irish 
during the Great Hunger in the early 19th century. The Irish helped 
build and defend our country. They became farmers, soldiers, 
firefighters, police officers, factory workers, labor organizers, and 
politicians. Many Irish immigrants settled in southwest Baltimore and 
contributed great numbers to the workforce that built America's first 
railroad, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad.
  Irish Marylanders have made notable contributions to both our Nation 
and our State in politics, science, and education. Marylander Charles 
Carroll of Carrollton, a third-generation Irish American, signed the 
Declaration of Independence, was a Founding Father, and served as the 
first U.S. Senator for Maryland. Medical trailblazer John Crawford 
emigrated from Ireland to Maryland and became famous for his 
contributions to eradicating smallpox, helping to identify transmission 
pathways, and improving vaccine distribution. Maryland has been home to 
numerous Irish Catholic bishops including John Carroll, James Gibbons, 
and Michael Curley. Bishop Carroll founded two universities, including 
St. Mary's College and Seminary. Bishop Gibbons advocated for the 
protection of exploited laborers during industrial expansion. Bishop 
Curley expanded education opportunities throughout Maryland. 
Descendants of Irish immigrants have also left their mark on America 
and on Maryland. Famous Marylanders with Irish ancestry include Edgar 
Allen Poe and Michael Phelps.
  When the Irish came to America, they brought a tremendous sense of 
pride and grit. The resiliency of Irish Americans has helped pull our 
Nation through difficult times. Irish Americans, despite facing trials 
and persecution, have persevered and have left a lasting, beneficial 
impact on our Nation; Yet they also maintain a strong and unique sense 
of identity and love for the Emerald Isle, enriching the diversity of 
our lives and communities. So, this month, in addition to donning your 
green and enjoying a pint of Guinness, I call on all Americans to 
remember and appreciate the many contributions of the Irish here in 
America.

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