[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E222]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHAL LORD 
           MAYOR OF BELFAST, IRELAND COUNCILLOR MICKY MURRAY

                                 ______
                                 

                        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 recognize the 
Right Honorable, the Lord Mayor, Councillor Micky Murray, who has been 
serving as the Lord Mayor of Belfast since June 3, 2024. Representing 
the Balmoral electoral area in South Belfast, Councillor Murray has 
been a member of Belfast council since 2022.
  Councillor Murray made history as the first openly gay individual to 
hold the position of Lord Mayor of Belfast, a significant achievement 
for both the city and the LGBTQ+ community. Before entering politics, 
he worked in the housing sector, where he specialized in supporting 
individuals facing homelessness and addiction challenges--a testament 
to his commitment to serving the most vulnerable in society.
  As Lord Mayor, Councillor Murray has been an outspoken advocate for 
inclusivity and representation, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. 
His participation in events such as the Belfast Pride march and his 
support for LGBTQ+ veterans highlight his ongoing efforts to ensure 
that all voices are heard and valued in Belfast.
  This year, Councillor Murray's leadership will be celebrated as he 
serves as Grand Marshal of the St. Pat's for All Parade. 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, Councillor Micky Murray's groundbreaking leadership as 
the first openly gay Lord Mayor of Belfast stands as a powerful symbol 
of progress and inclusivity. His steadfast advocacy for the LGBTQ+ 
community and his dedication to creating a more compassionate Belfast 
resonate deeply with the spirit of the St. Pat's for All Parade. 
Councillor Murray's work embodies justice and unity, highlighting the 
importance of representation and support for all. His efforts inspire 
us to embrace diversity and work toward a brighter, more united future 
for everyone.

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