Many people think that, because of his last name, Secretary of State and Beacon Hill native son John Kerry is Irish. He’s not. Sorry to disappoint. But that doesn’t mean he can’t celebrate like the rest of us. As the former longtime senator from predominantly Irish Massachusetts, it’s safe to say that he knows what’s up.
From the State Department in Washington D.C., Kerry wished the entire world a happy St. Patrick’s Day.
“Today, we look back with pride on Irish contributions to America’s history and cultural heritage,” said Kerry in a celebratory statement. “But we also look forward as Irish immigrants continue to renew America and remind us of our common roots.”
He went on to cite the innumerable efforts made on behalf of the country’s Irish population throughout its history, and hopes that we’ll all continue doing our part for the betterment of everyone.
Check out the rest of his statement below:
“President Obama said it best: “There’s always been a little green behind the red, white, and blue.” I couldn’t agree more. As a former Senator from Massachusetts, home to one of the largest Irish-American populations in our country, I hold a special appreciation of what Ireland means to America.
There are many Irish immigrants who have helped write America’s story with their incredible success. Today, we honor them and the next generation of leaders on both sides of the Atlantic who are supporting this vital relationship.
Our partnership is broader and deeper than ever before. We’re working together to promote civil society, science and technology, education, and entrepreneurship. We’re also forging new academic and professional partnerships and pursuing opportunities through delegations, such as the one led by Special Representative Drew O’Brien to Limerick and Belfast in January.
Our investments in peace and prosperity will continue to strengthen the bonds between Ireland, Northern Ireland, and the United States, and promote economic growth in both our countries.
We often remark that everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. In the words of Ireland’s great poets, to the island’s outsized place in world history, to the powerful example it sets for the world, there is a heritage for us all to celebrate.
On this joyous holiday, we offer the people of Ireland our warmest wishes and look forward to strengthening the Irish–American relationship for years to come.”
[image via Boston Globe]
