Immigration was never an easy prospect for the would-be immigrant. And today it is an all but impossible one for all too many dreaming of a new life in America.
But there was a time not so long ago when congressional action was able to deliver a safe and legal arrival in America, and much of the credit for that goes to a former member of Congress, Bruce Morrison.
And now the man behind the Morrison Visa program is to be lauded for his work of more than three decades ago, and in an appropriate setting high above the streets of New York City.
Organized by a recently former entity, the Morrison Legacy Foundation (www.morrisonlegacy.com) the 30th anniversary of the Morrison Visa Program, which was active from 1992 to 1995, will be celebrated on October 1 with a gala gathering in the Rainbow Room in Manhattan.
Said a release from the foundation: "Congressman Morrison spearheaded the landmark Immigration Act of 1990. This bipartisan initiative, developed in close partnership with the Irish community, led to the creation of the Morrison Visa program, which profoundly shaped the future of the Irish-American community. From 1992 to 1995, the Morrison Visa Program provided more than 45,000 visas for Irish people from across all 32 counties on the island of Ireland."
The newly launched website, added the release, serves as a central hub for Morrison Visa recipients to reconnect and share their personal narratives. By visiting the 'Share Your Story' section, individuals can contribute their experiences, highlighting the program's lasting impact on their lives and communities.
"These stories aim to celebrate the enduring legacy of the program and its role in strengthening ties between Ireland and the United States. In addition to the digital platform, the newly formed Morrison Legacy Foundation is organizing a series of events throughout the fall of 2025 to honor former Congressman Bruce Morrison and mark the program's three-decade milestone.
"These events will bring together visa recipients, their families, and supporters to reflect on the program's significance and the opportunities it created."
Reflecting on the program's inception, Bruce Morrison himself stated: "Immigration is not charity. We didn't award the visas for the good of the Irish. We did it for the good of America."
Morrison Visa recipient and Executive Director at NorthWell Health, Elaine Brennan, a native of County Clare, said: “The Morrison Visa program means so much more to me now than just a green card. It symbolizes hope and opportunity, not only for me but for generations to come.”
Added the foundation release: "The Morrison Legacy Foundation is being established to preserve and promote the history and impact of the Morrison Visa Program. It invites all recipients and their families to engage with the website and participate in the upcoming commemorative events.
"By sharing stories and attending events, individuals can contribute to a collective narrative that honors the past and inspires future generations. The Morrison Legacy Foundation will be a nonprofit organization committed to recognizing and celebrating the contributions of Morrison Visa recipients to the United States over the past 30 years.
"Through partnerships with cultural and educational institutions, the foundation aims to document the program's history, analyze its economic and social impact, and foster a deeper appreciation of the shared heritage between Ireland and the United States."
Congressman Morrison, who now heads the Washington, D.C-based Morrison Public Affairs Group," said he was delighted at the prospect of attending the gala saluting the visa program.
"I am looking forward to it immensely," he told the Echo.
To learn about the Gala and the foundation, visit https://morrisonlegacy.com/save-the-date/.
