Marion Reynolds, a central figure in Irish Northern Aid during the Troubles, Brian Sharkey of the Grand Council of Emerald Societies, and New York State Ancient Order of Hibernians President Thomas O’Donnell will be honored with "Spirit of 1916" Awards by Bronx County AOH on Sunday, November 24, at Rory Dolan’s in Yonkers.
This event, said a release, will also feature a special appeal by Andree Murphy, on behalf of Ireland’s Future, calling for Irish American support considered critical in getting the referendum on Irish reunification Britain promised in the Good Friday Agreement.
Marion Reynolds, continued the release, played a leading role in Irish Northern Aid during more than a quarter century of Irish conflict, "as INA overcame opposition, indeed vilification, from the British to provide critical American political and publicity backing for the Irish Republican Army struggle and funds for Republican prisoners.
"Originally from Headford, County Galway, she served as INA National Treasurer, INA Office Manager, and Business Manager for the Irish People Weekly Newspaper, all on a voluntary basis at personal and financial sacrifice."
Brian Sharkey is being honored for his leadership across the Emerald Societies, having served as President of the New York City Emerald Society and President of the Grand Council of United Emerald Societies, as well as President of Long Island AOH Division 17. Previously recognized as Irishman of the Year by the New York State Courts Emerald Society, the NYC Housing Emerald Society, New York City Department of Correction Emerald Society and the Detective Barney Ferguson Emerald Legacy Fund, he will now be honored by Bronx AOH with a prestigious "Spirit of 1916 award."
Thomas O’Donnell is the New York State AOH President, playing a major AOH leadership role on all Irish issues within the AOH’s largest state, New York, and also nationally.
Twenty-six years ago, added the release, with major American involvement, the British and Irish governments pledged in the Good Friday Agreement, that if a majority in the North wanted a united Ireland, they would have a right to vote for Irish reunification.
"Now, despite dramatic shifts in the North’s political makeup, the British say a border poll 'is not even on the horizon.' Unionists will not discuss a united Ireland, so long as British officials tell them there is no prospect of Britain granting a border poll.
"Andree Murphy of Ireland’s Future, the independent group which has become a leading advocate for Irish reunification, will travel from Belfast to outline the group’s strategy and critical need for Irish American support to help make Britain keep its Good Friday Agreement pledge allowing a vote to reunite Ireland."
The AOH, the release concluded, is the oldest and largest Irish-American Catholic organization and is committed to Freedom-for-all-Ireland, Immigration reform and the promotion of Irish culture, arts and history.
The awards event will take place on Sunday November 24 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Rory Dolan's, located at 890 McLean Avenue, Yonkers. Music will provided by Mike and Noreen Sherry. Dinner tickets are $100 and reservations are highly recommended. For tickets or information about congratulating the honorees in the souvenir journal call (718)597-6327, or email jacksligo@optonline.net, or call (917)715-8177, boyledenis605@gmail.com.
