“At one point hosting more Irishmen than Dublin itself, Irish-Americans have been an integral part of New York City throughout its vast history. As conditions at home worsened, due to both mistreatment and abuse by the British, and a Great Famine which threw Ireland into starvation, the United States, the land of opportunity, was a refuge for millions of Irish men, women, and children. Since then Irish-Americans have inhabited every corner of the City, from Staten Island to the North Bronx, from Hell’s Kitchen to the Rockaways, and have helped shape New York City into the ‘city of immigrants’ that it is. As New York City grows and diversifies, Irish-Americans still serve and protect our city, often as members of the NYPD and FDNY, and continue to make their mark on history,” said Council Member Farah N. Louis.

Read the full press release from the NYC Mayor’s Office (link).