WATCH: AOH launches poignant video to mark Irish American Heritage Month
The Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH) has released a special video to mark the beginning of Irish American Heritage Month on Friday, March 1.
The AOH, the largest fraternal Irish American organization in the US, re‐ leased the video "What defines an Irish American?" on YouTube on Friday, cele‐ brating the impact that Irish immigrants and their descendants have had on American society.
The poignant video features stories of several prominent Irish Americans who have played vital roles in American politics, sports, industry, and culture over the centuries, including IrishAmerican playwright Eugene O'Neill and former President John F. Kennedy. The AOH said it hopes the video fosters a deeper appreciation of the contribu‐ tions of Irish Americans to the United States.
To further celebrate Irish American Her‐ itage Month, the AOH has launched the Irish American Heritage Profile series on its website, celebrating a prominent fig‐ ure each day in March.
Each day, the series will spotlight a famous Irish American who has made significant contributions to their field and society at large.
"These short profiles will cover a range of individuals, from historical figures to contemporary leaders, illustrating the ongoing influence of Irish American her‐ itage in today’s world," the AOH said in a statement.
"The Ancient Order of Hibernians invites all Americans, regardless of heritage, to join in celebrating Irish American Her‐ itage Month. Through these initiatives, the organization hopes to not only honor the past but also inspire future genera‐ tions to continue the legacy of excel‐ lence and contribution that defines the Irish American community."
Irish American Heritage Month was first recognized by US Congress in 1991 and coincides with the annual St. Patrick's Day celebrations, which take place throughout March to celebrate Ireland's national holiday on March 17.
Click here to find out more about the AOH's Irish American Heritage Profile series.