IRISH AMERICANS FOR RACIAL JUSTICE

IRISH AMERICANS

FOR RACIAL JUSTICE

In the 19th Century, the Irish comprised more than half of the total immigrants to America, fleeing occupation, famine and oppression for greater opportunity. Instead, they were cast to the bottom of a social hierarchy that labeled them second class citizens for over a century. Through perseverance, the Irish not only assimilated, but eventually rose to prominence. Today, more than forty million Americans claim Irish ancestry and the sons and daughters of immigrants have ascended to the highest ranks of business, politics and the arts.  

Irish Americans for Racial Justice (IARJ)  is a 501c4 organization formed with the intent of drawing on the historical experiences of Irish immigrants and connecting them to the culture of systemic racism and discrimination that exists in the United States today. As Irish Americans, we can be proud of our achievements and celebrate our contributions to this nation while still acknowledging that the Irish are no longer an oppressed minority. As such, we have an obligation to use this privilege to join our brothers and sisters who continue to seek racial justice each day. With cities in flames, muslim bans, children in cages and people of color being murdered by law enforcement, our fight is not over until every American, regardless of race or ancestry, enjoys the same freedom as Irish Americans.