TRENTON – Governor Phil Murphy today signed a joint resolution (AJR63) designating the month of March as Irish-American Heritage Month. Irish-American Heritage Month will recognize the contributions of Irish Americans to the economic prosperity and culture of the State of New Jersey. Today, approximately 32 million people in the United States and 1.3 million people in New Jersey claim Irish ancestry.

“For centuries, the Irish have settled in this country seeking the American Dream, and through their hard work, America prospered,” said Governor Murphy. “The culture of our country would be much poorer if not for the Irish who came to our shores, and the generations of Irish people who have shaped New Jersey and our nation – with humility, faith, generosity, and warmth. As an Irish-American, I am proud to establish Irish-American Heritage Month in New Jersey.”

Primary sponsors of AJR63 include Senators Patrick Diegnan and Steven Oroho, and Assemblymembers Daniel Benson, Wayne DeAngelo, and Carol Murphy. 

“As the son of Irish immigrants, I know firsthand the contributions of the Irish. Irish immigrants are the embodiment of the American Dream,” said Senator Diegnan. “Irish American Heritage Month will honor the values of the Irish and celebrate their unique impact on our country.”

"For centuries, the Irish people, like many immigrants, came to this country and settled in states such as New Jersey looking for a better life for their families,” said Senate Minority Leader Oroho. "That life change usually involved accepting difficult and dangerous jobs just to make ends meet. Their steadfastness and will to succeed through generations has left a measurable impact on our culture, and contributed immensely to our growth and prosperity as a state. This joint resolution, now law, will formally recognize the courage and determination of Irish-Americans, and honor them for their considerable contributions, which helped shape the New Jersey of today."

“Irish-Americans have played a crucial role in the growth and development of the State of New Jersey,” said Assemblymembers Benson, DeAngelo, and Murphy in a joint statement. “With their rich history, heritage and hard work, Irish Americans have forged a path for future generations to follow.  We are honored to have the month of March recognize our ancestors’ sacrifices and contributions that continue to enrich our communities.”