[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E221]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHALL JUDY 
                                COLLINS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 18, 2025

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and 
celebrate Judy Collins, whose artistry and social activism have long 
inspired audiences worldwide. In the 1960s, she evoked both the 
idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social 
and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent 
presence shines brightly as new generations enjoy her iconic 55-album 
body of work, drawing inspiration from her spiritual discipline and her 
ability to thrive in the music industry for half a century.
  Judy Collins has long been esteemed for her imaginative 
interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards, as well 
as her own poetically poignant original compositions. Throughout her 
career, she has garnered several top-ten hits and gold- and platinum-
selling albums. Judy has long used her platform to advocate for the 
marginalized and the underserved, making her the ideal choice to lead 
as the Grand Marshal for the St. Pat's for All Parade, which celebrates 
the beauty of our shared humanity.
  Established on March 5, 2000, the parade takes place in Queens' 
Sunnyside and Woodside neighborhoods, historically home to Irish 
Americans in New York. The St. Pat's for All Parade offers a welcoming 
space for all and highlights Irish American heritage while promoting 
diversity, equality, and inclusion, bringing together people of all 
backgrounds in a shared celebration of love and unity.
  Mr. Speaker, Judy Collins' appointment as Grand Marshal for the St. 
Pat's for All Parade is a fitting tribute to her lifelong commitment to 
inclusivity, justice, and the celebration of diverse voices. Her 
presence as Grand Marshal not only honors the rich Irish heritage of 
the parade, but also reinforces the values of unity and equality that 
she has championed throughout her career. By leading this remarkable 
event, Judy continues to inspire us all to embrace our differences, 
stand up for what is right, and celebrate the strength found in our 
shared humanity.

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