The Ancient Order of Hibernians are holding a range of online activities to promote Irish American Heritage Month
By Irish Echo Staff
It's Irish American Heritage Month and the Ancient Order of Hibernians is determined to celebrate even though virtually physical gatherings and parades have been sidelined due to the pandemic.
"While precautions concerning the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic have resulted in the cancellation of St. Patrick’s Day parades and associated events, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the largest Irish American organization in the United States, has stepped up to ensure that Irish American Heritage Month is appropriately commemorated," said a release from the Hibernians.
" In the spirit of their constitution, the Hibernians have scheduled a series of virtual events 'to foster the ideals and perpetuate the history and traditions of the Irish people' with something to appeal to everyone from age 6 to 96."
Added the release: The Ancient Order of Hibernians is very excited to partner with the Gael Scoil of New Jersey. Starting on Monday, March 1, and running till St. Patrick’s day, the “17 Days of St. Patrick Program” will be offering daily online 10-minute videos aimed at teaching and entertaining children about Ireland.
"The videos have been kept short to accommodate young attention spans and busy adult schedules and are available on-demand. It is an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy their heritage together. The video may be found at the Gael Scoil (http://www.gaelscoil.us) and Ancient Order of Hibernians: (http://www.aoh.com) websites.
The AOH will also be offering profiles of famous Irish American men and women, highlighting their contributions to America. A new profile will be posted each weekday on the AOH website and Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/aoh.in.america/).
"The Hibernians shall also be offering a series of webinars each weekend, featuring respected authorities speaking on topics of Irish and Irish American interest
"On Saturday, March 13th at 1 p.m., Michael McGovern, the Puddler Poet, IRB man, AOH Member, presented by Leo Finnegan and Jim Fahy (RTE Correspondent for the West of Ireland) who are writing a book on Michael McGovern. Michael McGovern, Irish nationalist, American patriot, labor poet, was, in his day, one of the most powerful voices of working men and women in the U.S.
"On Saturday, March 20th at 1 p.m., Dr. Damien Shiels, The Irish in the American Civil War, is a noted historian and archaeologist. He has lectured and published widely on both social, military history, and conflict archaeology. Dr. Shiels previously spent time as a curator at the National Museum of Ireland as part of the team that designed and prepared the award-winning “Soldiers and Chiefs” military history exhibition. He established and published the www.irishamericancivilwar.com website. These events are free and all are welcome to view."
