US Politicians Celebrate Northern Ireland's Historical Ties
Senior US Republican and Democrat politicians gathered to commemorate Northern Ireland's connection to a pivotal event in American history. Over 200 attendees convened in Washington to honor those from Ulster involved in the signing of the American Declaration of Independence 250 years ago.
Among the notable attendees was former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. The event was organised by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.
"The signing of the Declaration of Independence was both a defining moment in American history and an important chapter in the long relationship between Ulster and the United States," Lyons stated.
"From its earliest days America has been shaped by people who crossed oceans in search of new opportunities – including thousands from the shores of Ulster."
Lyons highlighted that over 25 million Americans identify as Scots Irish or Ulster Scots. He also noted that the first copies of the Declaration were printed by John Dunlap, a man from Strabane, and that several signatories of the Declaration had family roots in Ulster.
Planned Celebrations and Cultural Events
To further celebrate these US-Northern Ireland links, a series of concerts, exhibitions, cultural displays, and theatre productions are scheduled for this summer.
Jen Condon, Executive Vice President of the America250 Commission, emphasized the importance of recognizing these connections.
"Our nations share deep historical ties and values that continue to shape our communities today," Condon said.
"Gatherings like this remind us that the story of America has always been connected to the people and traditions that crossed the Atlantic and helped build our country."
Funding Initiatives to Highlight Ulster-Scots Contributions
Earlier in the year, Gordon Lyons announced a funding programme aimed at supporting local projects in Northern Ireland. These projects are intended to highlight the significant contributions of Ulster-Scots and Irish settlers, thinkers, and politicians to the founding of the United States.
