    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 134, 116th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 9989 of February 28, 2020
    Irish-American Heritage Month, 2020
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation
    During Irish-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the countless
    achievements of Irish Americans and recognize the remarkable
    contributions they have made to our Nation's character, culture, and
    pros-

    [[Page 5195]]

    perity. From America's earliest days, Irish Americans have proven
    themselves to be confident, fierce, tough, and faithful. They never give
    up, and they never give in, embodying the indomitable spirit that drives
    us as a people. This month, we recognize their efforts to help build a
    stronger, prouder America, and we acknowledge the steadfast relationship
    we have with the Emerald Isle.
    Irish Americans have played a critical role in our Nation's history and
    have made significant contributions to our military, government, and
    economy. During the Revolutionary War, General Henry Knox, the son
    of Irish immigrants, helped lead General George Washington's famous
    crossing of the Delaware River. Years later, more than 150,000 Irishmen
    fought to preserve our Union during the Civil War, shedding their blood
    so that others would experience the blessings of liberty. And one of our
    most famous buildings, the White House, was designed by Irish architect
    James Hoban, who came to the United States after the Revolutionary War.
    From business and politics to film and music, Irish Americans have risen
    to distinction and helped move our Nation forward.
    As we honor the many ways in which Irish Americans have enriched our
    country, we acknowledge the enduring relationship the United States has
    with Ireland. This longstanding relationship is only growing stronger
    thanks to our robust economy. Approximately 700 American businesses have
    a presence on the Emerald Isle and account for 20 percent of the
    country's employment. Through our common bond of culture, language, and
    interests, Ireland provides a great opportunity for our businesses
    looking to invest in Europe. Likewise, approximately 450 Irish companies
    are represented in the United States. These companies employ more than
    100,000 workers and have invested nearly $150 billion in our country.
    This month, as we celebrate the vibrant heritage and culture of Irish
    Americans and partake in St. Patrick's Day festivities on March 17, we
    pay tribute to the tenacious Irish spirit. We admire the devotion,
    faith, and resilience of the more than 31 million Irish Americans who
    help our country flourish, and we look forward to a continued strong and
    enduring friendship with Ireland for years to come.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2020 as Irish-
    American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to celebrate the
    achievements of Irish Americans and their contributions to our Nation
    with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day
    of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-
    fourth.
    DONALD J. TRUMP