Irish American Writers & Artists are opposing proposed Historical Society sale
By Irish Echo Staff
The Irish American Writers & Artists group has stated its opposition to the planned sale of the American Irish Historical Society in Manhattan.
In a statement issued in the name of its board of directors, IAW&A said that it "stands Against the Sale of the American Irish Historical Society Building at 991 Fifth Avenue" and "welcomes the St. Patrick’s Day announcement from New York Attorney General Letitia James that her office will closely monitor the proposed sale of the American Irish Historical Society."
The statement continued: "We believe that the sale of 991 Fifth Avenue would be a monumental loss not just to the Irish in New York but the global Irish community.
"Within that iconic building lies the story of Irish immigrants all over the world who have sought out a piece of Ireland in a new place and established themselves with pride in their new home. The building - and the one-of-a-kind collection and library the AIHS has collected over decades - remains a crucial part of the story of the Irish in New York and America, and stands as a beacon of hope for the future generations of Irish people who are yet to set their sights on Manhattan.
"IAW&A remains committed to continuing the 120-year legacy of one of the finest Irish buildings in America and ensuring that it remains a part of our community as a home to this important Irish heritage. As a not-for-profit we - along with all other Irish groups and organizations in New York - have worked diligently over the last year to keep our community together throughout the pandemic, and we will continue to do so in standing firmly against this sale.
"We hope that 991 Fifth Avenue will continue to shine as an important part of the New York Irish community, as a point of gathering for artists, a remembrance of our history, a meeting place for old friends, and a refuge for new arrivals, for many years to come."
