Irish-American Heritage Month, 2020

Proclamation 9989 of February 28, 2020

Irish-American Heritage Month, 2020

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During Irish-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the
countless achievements of Irish Americans and recognize
the remarkable contributions they have made to our
Nation's character, culture, and prosperity. From
America's earliest days, Irish Americans have proven
themselves to be confident, fierce, tough, and
faithful. They never give up, and they never give in,
embodying the indomitable spirit that drives us as a
people. This month, we recognize their efforts to help
build a stronger, prouder America, and we acknowledge
the steadfast relationship we have with the Emerald
Isle.

Irish Americans have played a critical role in our
Nation's history and have made significant
contributions to our military, government, and economy.
During the Revolutionary War, General Henry Knox, the
son of Irish immigrants, helped lead General George
Washington's famous crossing of the Delaware River.
Years later, more than 150,000 Irishmen fought to
preserve our Union during the Civil War, shedding their
blood so that others would experience the blessings of
liberty. And one of our most famous buildings, the
White House, was designed by Irish architect James
Hoban, who came to the United States after the
Revolutionary War. From business and politics to film
and music, Irish Americans have risen to distinction
and helped move our Nation forward.

As we honor the many ways in which Irish Americans have
enriched our country, we acknowledge the enduring
relationship the United States has with Ireland. This
longstanding relationship is only growing stronger
thanks to our robust economy. Approximately 700
American businesses have a presence on the Emerald Isle
and account for 20 percent of the country's employment.
Through our common bond of culture, language, and
interests, Ireland provides a great opportunity for our
businesses looking to invest in Europe. Likewise,
approximately 450 Irish companies are represented in
the United States. These companies employ more than
100,000 workers and have invested nearly $150 billion
in our country.

This month, as we celebrate the vibrant heritage and
culture of Irish Americans and partake in St. Patrick's
Day festivities on March 17, we pay tribute to the
tenacious Irish spirit. We admire the devotion, faith,
and resilience of the more than 31 million Irish
Americans who help our country flourish, and we look
forward to a continued strong and enduring friendship
with Ireland for years to come.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim March 2020 as Irish-
American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to
celebrate the achievements of Irish Americans and their
contributions to our Nation with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord
two thousand twenty, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and forty-
fourth.