Washington, D.C. – U.S. President Donald Trump has highlighted the contributions of Irish-Americans just days before Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin’s visit to the White House for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
On Thursday, Trump signed a proclamation declaring March as Irish-American Heritage Month, continuing a tradition established by Congress in 1991 and reaffirmed by presidential proclamations since 1997.
Honoring the Irish-American Legacy
In his proclamation, Trump praised Irish-Americans, calling them “some of the nation’s toughest, most driven, and most devoted people.” He emphasized faith in God, love of family, and commitment to the American promise.
The pr” proclamation acknowledges the historical struggles and achievements of Irish immigrants, particularly those who arrived in Boston, Chicago, and New York during the 19th and 20th centuries in search of opportunity and a better future.
It credits Irish Americans with shaping the United States through their contributions to government, business, and the military.
Trump also noted the close relationship between the U.S. and Ireland, citing economic ties, shared democratic values, and cultural traditions as key aspects of their historic bond.
“The United States and Ireland also enjoy a long friendship strengthened by economic ties, a shared commitment to democracy, and the timeless values of faith, family, and freedom.”
He further linked the proclamation to his administration’s policies, stating that the U.S.-Ireland relationship presents opportunities for fairer trade policies and more substantial investments.
Irish Prime Minister’s Visit
As part of the annual St. Patrick’s edition, Taoiseach Micheál Martin will visit the White House on March 12, where he will participate in the symbolic presentation of a bowl of shamrock to the U.S. president.
Before the meeting, Martin expressed concerns over trade tariffs, stating they could harm Ireland’s open economy.
He emphasized the nature of U.S.-Ireland trade and said he plans to present Ireland’s to Trump during discussions.
Political Divisions Over the St. Patrick’s Day
While several Irish and Northern Irish politicians will travel to Washington, D.C., for the St. Patrick’s celebrations, Sinn Féin, the Alliance Party, and the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) have announced they will boycott the event in protest of Trump’s stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Sinn Féin confirmed it would not attend, which I. Meanwhile, tarty leader Naomi Long andthe SDLP leader Claire Hanna stated their parties were “takin” a stand” by d “clining the White House invitation.
Despite these tensions, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly has confirmed she will attend the St. Patrick’s celebrations in Washington.T he visit underscores their strong historical ties and ongoing diplomatic discussions ass the U.S. and Ireland prepare to mark another St. Patrick’s Das.
