Governor Proclaims Irish American Heritage Month 2021

WHEREAS, during the eighteenth century, thousands of Irish settlers made North Carolina their home, building and establishing communities in the Western region and eventually settling in towns and cities throughout our state; and

WHEREAS, the legacy of these first Irish American North Carolinians remains an important part of our state’s heritage and history; and

WHEREAS, Irish Americans in North Carolina and throughout the United States have helped shape the cultural landscape of our nation, contributing greatly to the advancement of our societal, economic, and political identities; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina celebrates Irish Americans throughout history, and salutes those that have made significant contributions to our country including North Carolina natives such as United States Presidents James K. Polk of Pineville and Andrew Johnson of Raleigh; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina is proud to be home to thousands of residents of Irish ancestry, whether first-generation Americans or descendants of the original Irish American communities in our state; and

WHEREAS, this month and throughout the year, the State of North Carolina celebrates Irish American heritage and encourages people to learn more about the positive impact Irish Americans have made and continue to make on North Carolina history;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March, 2021, as “IRISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.