The 2020 Ancient Order of Hibernians and Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians conventions will go ahead - but virtually
By Irish Echo Staff
It will come as no great surprise, but for sure as a big disappointment to members, that the 2020 AOH and LAOH national conventions will not be going ahead as planned, but rather as virtual gatherings as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a letter to members from Louisiana-based National President Judge James F. McKay, and Ohio-based LAOH National President Carol Sheyer, the cancellation of the biennial gathering, which was set for Orlando, Florida, next month, was announced and explained.
The letter stated in part: "Today we have the unfortunate responsibility to notify all members of the AOH and LAOH that the 2020 national convention will move to a virtual convention due to COVID-19. The health and safety of our membership is the reason for this change. Details of both the AOH and the LAOH virtual convention will follow as plans are finalized.
"The AOH and LAOH National Boards and membership wish to thank the local convention committee and the Rosen Centre hotel staff for their great work preparing for this convention. It is our hope that we can be in Orlando in 2024 to complete what we began four years ago.
"The challenge presented to us today includes opportunities for continued success of both the AOH and LAOH. We anticipate participation from delegates virtually who would otherwise not be able to participate in the 2020 AOH LAOH national convention. We look forward to a successful and historic convention as we go virtual for the first time."
