Boston City Hall Plaza Turns Green As The Irish Flag Is Recognized

Boston City Hall was filled with green on March 17, 2023 to celebrate the raising of the tri color, the Irish flag in recognition of Irish History Month brought forward to the Council floor by City Councilor At Large Erin Murphy and co-sponsored by Councilor At Large Michael Flaherty and Council President Ed Flynn. Children from the Elliot School in the North End entertained the large crowd with their performance of costumed song and dance. Father John Currie said a prayer and the program began. Irish dignitaries; Laoise Moore (Council General Of Ireland), Paul McAuliffe (House of Representatives), and Councilor Briege Mac Oscar were in attendance as the American National Anthem and the Irish National Anthem were played to coincide with the flag raisings. Boston City Hall was represented by Council President Ed Flynn who received a lovely gift from the Irish delegation of a signed Irish hurling stick to be used as the new gavel in Council Chambers. Those Irish have a great sense of humor! Councilors At-Large Erin Murphy, Michael Flaherty and District Councilors, Frank Baker, Kenzie Bok and Liz Breadon all took a turn at the handle as the Irish flag ascended and the crowd cheered.

Former Boston City Councilor and now Executive Director of the Irish Cultural Center, and State Auditor Diana DiZoglio spoke at the podium to show support for St. Patrick, the patron Saint of Ireland. When the program was over, Councilor Erin Murphy hosted a small reception in the Piemonte Room at Boston City Hall where Irish scones, soda bread, cookies and pastry were delicious. It was a great day for the Irish!