In this photograph taken in 1925, my mother Kathleen (far left), her mother and father Sam and Ellen Bell, and 10 other siblings pose as they leave their home in Crossgar, County Down. They journeyed to the United States and settled in Chicago, where, after only four years, my granddad died, leaving Grandma Bell to raise a family of 11. She was a woman of tremendous faith in … [Read more...] about Photo Album: “Give Me a Wee Step”
Immigration
Taking the Lead
by Tom DeignanNorthwell CEO Michael Dowling talks about leadership, the future of healthcare, and what immigrants can teach the rest of usYou could understand why someone like Michael Dowling – who grew up amidst extreme poverty in Limerick – might turn out to be a bit of a pessimist. Especially if they also spent the last two-plus years weathering the grim storm of … [Read more...] about Taking the Lead
Irish War Brides: A Little Irish Romance
A group of workers on the docks serenaded the passengers with “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” and “Come Back to Erin.” The sirens of other ships in the harbor wailed while the 314 Irish brides waved, held up their 140 babies, and sang “Auld Lang Syne” through floods of tears as the Henry Gibbins, a 12,000-ton U.S. Army transport vessel, sailed away from the Herdman Channel, … [Read more...] about Irish War Brides: A Little Irish Romance
Judy Collins on the Town
Singer and author Judy Collins, just off an 18-month tour with Stephen Stills, and with hit song “Dreamers” on the Billboard charts, was back in New York City, her home since the ’70s, on February 4 to accept the Joe's Pub Vanguard Award & Residency for 2019. The award celebrates the career of a singular artist who has contributed to American life and pop culture. Alex … [Read more...] about Judy Collins on the Town
Irish Favor Birthright Citizenship
As other western countries are endorsing populist agendas on tightening immigration policy, Ireland is voicing its opposition to such restrictions, overwhelmingly in favor of reinstating birthright citizenship. A Sunday Times poll found that 71 percent favored birthright citizenship, while 19 percent were opposed and 10 percent undecided. Three days later, a proposal on the … [Read more...] about Irish Favor Birthright Citizenship