Please join me tomorrow (2/18) at 3pm ET for the inaugural Eileen Patricia McMahon Zogby Irish Lecture, "A Genius for Politics? Irish Immigrants and the Battle to Expand American Democracy, 1830-60." As many of you know, Eileen had a passion for justice and political empowerment that extended beyond her own Irish ancestry to the struggles of others, including those who embrace Arab ancestry. This series is part of the tribute made in her memory and I know she would love for you to be part of it. Eileen saw so many similarities in the Irish and Arab struggles. She hoped that people would take the time to learn more about both communities and their achievements here in the U.S. She believed, as I do, that when people know their story and understand the journey of their ancestors, our nation moves closer to realizing the American ideal.
Led by Professor Sean Farrell (Northern Illinois University), this lecture will focus on the stories of Irish and Irish-American canal workers, who fought and voted in communities from Maryland to Illinois. Examining the political lives of these largely working-class Irish immigrants underlines the fact that struggles over the right to vote and efforts to disenfranchise populations have a long and all too familiar history in the United States. It's a conversation that remains sadly relevant today.
We wouldn't have been able to launch this lecture series without your help so I really do hope you can join us. Please register here.
Arab American Institute Foundation
1600 K Street, NW, Suite 601
Washington, DC 20006
United States
