As co-chairs of the American Irish State Legislators Caucus, we are pleased to introduce a resolution designating March 2025 as Irish American Heritage Month in Pennsylvania.

The U.S. Congress made this distinction in 1991, and the President issues an annual proclamation commemorating this occasion which honors the achievements and contributions of Irish Americans to the United States.

Pennsylvania has a rich history of Irish heritage with close to two million of our residents claiming Irish descent. Our commonwealth was built on the contributions of our Irish ancestors and those of us who carry their legacies, values, and traditions that bind Ireland and Pennsylvania together.

When Irish immigrants came to the United States during the Great Famine of the 1840s, they helped transform our cities, building them into dynamic centers of commerce and industry. In fact, many migrated directly to the Pittsburgh region, which doubled the population of Allegheny County over a ten-year period.

Our Irish ancestors have contributed in other numerous capacities, including but certainly not limited to, government, industry, the arts, labor, culture, and our Armed Forces.

In fact, John Barry, the “Father of the Navy” was born in Ireland and later lived in Philadelphia. He was the first naval hero of the Revolutionary War, which is especially notable as we approach its 250th anniversary.

We also celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this month on March 17, as we remember and honor St. Patrick who introduced Christianity to Ireland in the early fifth century. This holiday has developed in the United States as a jovial celebration of all things Irish.

Please join us as we celebrate Irish American Heritage Month, and remember our ancestors who came to America many years ago to help build our commonwealth’s foundations with grit and persistence.