TEXT OF PROCLAMATION
Governor Cuomo Proclaims
St. Patrick’s Day In New York
Editor’s Note: Here is the text of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proclamation of “St. Patrick’s Day In New York State.”
Just before dawn on April 24th, 1916, over 1,600 Irish men and women took up arms to end British rule in what would become known as the Easter Rising.
It’s been a century since that April morning, which marked the resurgence of the Irish independence movement. Even today, the spirit and determination shown by those revolutionaries can be seen in the over 36 million Irish-Americans as they contribute to our state and nation’s thriving civic and public life.
St. Patrick’s Day is often associated with wearing green, being “Irish for a day,” and enjoying delicious corned beef and cabbage. But while we celebrate these traditions, it’s important that we also remember the deep and abiding connection between New Yorkers and the Irish.
Irish-Americans represent one of New York’s largest ethnic groups. Their contributions have been both enduring and impactful and they continue to enrich our lives. From Margaret Sanger and Robert F. Wagner Jr., to former governor Hugh Carey and Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, influential Irish New Yorkers have shaped our nation, brought forth change and social progress, and made this state a better place for all.
I’m proud to proclaim today, March 17th 2016, as St. Patrick’s Day in the State of New York.
In recognition of the holiday, today I’ll be marching in the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade alongside members of the National Guard’s 69th Infantry. The “Fighting 69th” traces its lineage back to the Civil War’s Irish Regiment, and they have marched at the head of the parade every year since 1851.
On behalf of all New Yorkers, I wish you a Happy St. Patrick’s Day.
GOV. ANDREW M. CUOMO
