Officials highlight heritage and service of Irish
UTICA, MArch 11, 2009 -- City officials and members of the Irish-American Community reminded onlookers of the traditions and heritage behind the upcoming St. Patrick’s Day holiday.
“The heritage and culture you exhibit is great,” said Utica Mayor David Roefaro said in at flag-raising ceremony on Wednesday.
Parade Director Kevin Dowling highlighted some of the contributions and traditions Irish people have made to the community and the world and he asked that people remembered the history when celebrating the holiday.
“When you think about St. Patrick’s day, think of these things too,” he said. “We like to celebrate and we don’t discourage that; it’s part of our heritage. But, let’s also think about what this is all really about.”
Dowling reminded audience members of the religious persecution Irish people faced before coming to America. He also highlighted the service of Irish and Irish-American soldiers who have shed blood for American causes.
Officials gave special acknowledgement to a group of soldiers seated in the front row of City Hall's Common Council chambers before those soldiers led the precession out to the flagpole.
“In this celebration of spirit and heritage I think it’s only right that our military men lead the parade,” Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks said.
Another thing that was brought up more than once was the expected erection of an Irish cultural center in West Utica, paid for by money raised by Frankfort’s Great American Irish Festival over the years.
“It’ll be the first multi-million dollar building project in the brewery district that I can remember in my lifetime,” Matthew Sullivan said.
Near the end of the ceremony, Frank Kealy, who will be the grand marshal of Utica’s parade on Saturday, asked onlookers to think about the cause still relevant in Northern Ireland, where the country is still engaged in some territorial disputes.
“Comment on these things when you get a chance, to people who can change them,” he said. “Even in America, your voice matters.”