The Ancient Order of Hibernians was founded to protect our clergy. What better way to support our clergy than supporting vocations? I am asking you to bring this Easter Appeal Packet forward and include it as part of your Division, County and State agendas in order to make the 2019 Easter Appeal for vocations a success. All scholarship dollars raised will support seminarians and religious vocations in local Hibernians dioceses.

In order to accomplish this, we need immediate assistance from your Division. Please fill out the enclosed Division Diocese Form and include the name and mailing address for your Bishop and your Vocations Director. We need these forms returned as soon as possible so we can begin distribution of the Scholarship Applications. If your chaplain is a non-diocesan priest please contact me directly so we can include his Order in our process as well.

The goal of Project St. Patrick (PSP) during the Easter Appeal is to raise funds for $500 scholarship awards for our Diocesan Seminarians and Religious. We are asking every division to participate with a donation to insure the success of PSP and demonstrate our commitment to our Holy Church. Remember, no donation is too large or too small. We are asking every division to set a minimum goal of $500, which is the equivalent of one scholarship.

Each donation of $500 or more creates a scholarship in the name of your Chaplain or anyone you believe is worthy of such recognition. The donating division will receive a certificate recognizing the honor bestowed on your Chaplain or other worth recipient. Donations of $500 in memory of a deceased individual will also come with a certificate in memory of the honoree. These certificates will serve as an ongoing reminder of the work done by your Chaplains do or the service a deceased individual provided during his lifetime. Please make the most of the Easter Appeal and support vocations in the Catholic Church through Project St. Patrick.

In addition to the current Appeal, we continue our Prayer Card Program and ask Divisions, Counties, States, and individual members to participate in this throughout the year. As your Chairman, I look forward to working with you throughout my term.

God Bless,

Vic Vogel
51 Avondale Drive
Islip, New York 11751
victorjvogel@yahoo.com
Project St. Patrick Chairman

Attached forms:
2019 Division Diocese Form
2019 Project St. Patrick Donation Form

Remember:

1) Turn in Diocese Form immediately so your local Seminarians will have an opportunity to apply for a Project St. Patrick Scholarship.

2) Make Project St. Patrick a priority for the Easter Season. Please set a goal to support vocations.

3) Name Recognition Scholarships are available for donations of $500 or more. Raise $1,000 and give two Name Recognition Scholarships.

4) Honor your Chaplain with a Name Recognition Scholarship. Honor deceased members or your Hibernians of the Year with a name recognition scholarship.

5) Name Recognition Scholarships may be turned in as PSP donations at any time. During the Annual Easter Appeal, we focus on donations for Vocation Scholarships.

6) Utilize Project St. Patrick Prayer Cards throughout the year.

As we approach the 21-year mark, we proudly recognize America’s contribution to the Good Friday Agreement and reaffirm its fundamental Principles. As a respected statesman, Martin McGuinness reached across the political, socio-economic and religious divide, stood by the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and committed the remainder of his life to working towards the fulfillment of its goals. Martin McGuinness’s legacy, through his own words, is commemorated in each of the McGuinness Principles. In memory of all who brought us this far, we ask that you pledge support for the Martin McGuinness Principles.

“Our friend and leader will never be forgotten. Martin McGuinness a proud son of Ireland, a beloved son of Derry. Ni bheidh a leitheid ann aris” Sinn Fein President, Mary Lou McDonald, speaking today on the second anniversary of Martin McGuinness’ passing.

We support:

• A Bill of Rights.
• Full statutory equality for the Irish Language.
• Funding for legacy inquests as part of the process of healing and reconciliation.
• A referendum on Irish unity in keeping with the Good Friday Agreement.

Recent News 

• NYC Council Irish Caucus endorsed the McGuinness Principles of Justice ,Equality, Respect and the Right to Self-determination led by Chair Daniel Dromm
• Nassau County Executive endorses McGuinness Principles at St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, with Louise O’Reilly TD in attendance
• Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 12 Boston endorse the McGuinness Principles
• Why “England Get Out of Ireland” banner belongs in New York Parade, article by Niall O’Dowd
• Michelle O’Neill commends Bloody Sunday Families.

Ways to get involved

• Irish American Organizations. Resolution found here.
• Elected officials.  Resolution found here.
• Labor Unions and Members.  Resolution found here.
• Students, Individuals and Groups. Support materials found here.
• Find all the ways to get involved here.

Social Media

• Twitter
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Website  

Resolutions in support of The Principles

• The Friendly Sons of the Jersey Shore (FSOS)  
• The Irish American Unity Conference
• Cumann Cháitlín agus Thomáis Uí Chléirigh (Brooklyn branch of Conradh na Gaeilge/Gaelic League)
• The James Connolly Irish American Labor Coalition
• Yonkers City Council
• Rockland County Legislator
• Mercer County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO
• Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union No. 9, NJ
• Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians
• Irish Americans in Government  
• The Friendly Sons of Long Island
• National Convention of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (July 2018)
• Peekskill NY City Council.
• Plumbers and Gasfitters Local 12
• New York City Council Irish Caucus
• Nassau County Executive
• Suffolk County Legislature

FFAI ISSUES UPDATE

A- Brexit chaos as Westminster rejects May deal-

Britain’s exit from the European Union, Brexit, due March 29th was delayed as Westminster vetoed Prime Minister Theresa May’s deal with the EU. Multiple parliamentary defeats made May ask the EU for an extension. No one knows what will happen next. Had Britain accepted May’s withdrawal deal with the EU nations, Brexit could have gone ahead on May 22nd. Brexit could go ahead without any deal on April 12th or Britain could ask for more time and even renegotiations. Exiting after May 22nd, would require Britain to elect candidates to the European Parliament. Britain could also cancel Brexit by revoking their Article 50 withdrawal notice.

May survived a no-confidence vote within her own party two months ago, after pledging to step down before the next British election or further Brexit negotiations. Alternative Brexit plan were voted down in “indicative votes.” May’s defeats in Parliament have prompted renewed pressure to replace her now.

Meanwhile Brexit chaos continues to threaten economic disaster for Ireland. The EU and May negotiated a 599 page Withdrawal Agreement, including a “backstop” to avoid a disastrous hard border across Ireland. Brexiteers within Prime Minister Theresa May’s Tory Party, joined with the DUP, to oppose the “backstop” or safety net that would only begin if a full trade agreement was not reached by the end of 2020.

No deal Brexit would make the six counties Europe’s land border with Britain, requiring customs, tariff and immigration checks. The EU invited the north to remain in the customs union, with customs, immigration controls etc beginning in the Irish sea, (meaning at entry points into England, Scotland or Wales). This favored position would benefit the north. However the DUP rejected the backstop proposals as a “backstab” denouncing even preferences for the north as a slippery slope towards a united Ireland.

B-Token prosecution for Bloody Sunday as Bradley says crown force killings were not crimes-

Only one British trooper will be prosecuted for 13 murdered and 15 wounded by British troops on Bloody Sunday. Up to 18 troopers were expected to be charged. The trooper, identified only as British “Soldier F”, was charged with the murders of James Wray and William McKinney and the attempted murders of Patrick O’Donnell, Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon and Michael Quinn. The families of the other victims were described as “heartbroken” and “devastated.” Derry author Eamon McCann renewed his charge that no officers, or commanders were charged for murder or cover-up.

The announcement came days after Karen Bradley, Britain’s six county administrator told Westminster that fewer than 10% of conflict killings were at the hands of the British Army or Royal Ulster Constabulary and these killings “were not crimes. They were people acting under orders and under instruction and fulfilling their duty in a dignified and appropriate way”.

James Wray’s brother Liam said that while his family was relieved, he was “very saddened for the other Bloody Sunday families who have not got justice here and whose hearts must be broken”.

On Bloody Sunday, January 28, 1972,the British Army paratroop regiment responsible for the August 9-11 “Ballymurphy Massacre” opened fire on a civil rights march against Internment without charge or trial. It convinced many civil rights supporters that a regime which answered civil rights marchers with bullets would never give justice. The killings were judicially whitewashed by the Widgery Tribunal but after decades and the Saville Inquiry, Prime Minister David Cameron admitted that the killings were “unjustified and unjustifiable.” However only one token prosecution has been initiated. Meanwhile former British troopers are planning protests against any prosecutions and flags have appeared in Carrickfergus and other loyalist heartlands supporting the paratroopers and British “Soldier F.”

C-Finucane Supreme Court victory-

Britain’s Supreme Court ruled that the crown failed to carry out any effective investigation as required by European law into the state’s involvement in the murder of civil rights lawyer Pat Finucane. The De Silva inquiry where Judge Desmond de Silva reviewed written reports instead of calling and hearing witnesses, did not satisfy the crown’s obligations to protect the right to life under Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights. They ruled that there had never been any state investigation which could establish the key facts or the guilt of those responsible for the murder.

Pat Finucane was a Belfast civil rights lawyer, who represented Bobby Sands and also testified in American political asylum cases for Sean Mackin and was scheduled to testify for Gabriel Megahey. Because of his success in British non-jury Diplock Courts,he received threats from the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Republicans who requested him as counsel were told that they should ask for someone who would be alive to finish the case. British MP Douglas Hogg threatened him under privilege in Parliament.

On February 12,1989,loyalists entered Pat’s home and murdered him in front of his wife and children. Republicans realized that British crown forces were involved but the British crown denied any complicity and their Ambassador accused me personally of being a “scurrilous liar” for briefing members of Congress about collusion in the murder and getting a Congressional protest letter. The Ambassador said the crown “would never stoop to such methods”. It has since been proven that British agents were in fact directly involved.

The family campaigned for a full public inquiry and Pat’s murder was included in the Cory Report as part of the Good Friday negotiations. Finally in 2004, the British Secretary for the north promised a public inquiry in a parliamentary statement. Prime Minister David Cameron invited the family to London but announced the Da Silva review instead of the expected public inquiry.

D-Loughinisland Film Journalists interrogated by Constabulary-

Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey the prominent Belfast journalists who produced the documentary “NO STONE UNTURNED” were brought in for interrogation by constabulary in what is viewed as a further attempt to silence and intimidate anyone who investigates collusion by British crown forces. Six victims in Loughinisland were murdered while watching Ireland play Italy in a World Cup soccer match in 1994. The film names and shows the murderers, and reveals that besides evidence available from the car, weapons, and clothing the wife of one of the gunmen had telephoned and written confessing her involvement and naming the gunmen. Despite everything, no one was ever charged. The two journalists were arrested last August and charged with stealing documents. They were forced to appear and be interrogated in an attempt to make them to name confidential sources.

Patrick Corrigan of Amnesty International said “when police are arresting journalists who have investigated police collusion in the killing of civilians, rather than the killers and those who helped them get away with murder, people everywhere should be worried”.

MALACHY MCALLISTER DEPORTATION FIGHT

Malachy McAllister’s fight against deportation is still at a critical point. He is an example of Britain’s policy of making political points with Irish victims. Malachy has multiple grounds which should entitle him to legal permanent residence under American law. He is a prominent AOH member, key member of the National FFAI Committee, and respected member of the Irish-American community. He was a political prisoner decades ago in a war that is long over.

Malachy is a pawn in an old British game of criminalization. The British think they can brand anyone who dares oppose them as a criminal. That was true of the patriots they shot in 1916. That was true of George Washington who himself said to the “Patriots of Ireland” in 1788 “had I failed the scaffold would have been my doom.”It was true of Bobby Sands and the Hunger Strikers who suffered torture and death rather than be masqueraded as criminals for Margaret Thatcher.

The British want America to brand Malachy a criminal by deporting him. The human cost to Malachy and his children does not matter to Britain. The AOH, led by our National President Jim McKay, Treasurer Sean Pender, Immigration Chair Dan Dennehy and FFAI, together with other Irish American organizations are fighting back. Already a Call to Action, answered by state chairs in Texas and South Carolina, has gotten important support.

Things are moving quickly. The AOH-LAOH will need to respond quickly and I urge everyone to check the national web site, FFAI updates respond to Calls for Action. We have to win for Malachy and his family!

MARK THOMPSON BOOK LAUNCH TOUR

Mark Thompson and Professor Mark McGovern are launching a new book COLLUSION- COUNTERINSURGENCY in NORTHERN IRELAND in April and are planning to do an American launch from June 1st to June 10th.

This groundbreaking book will put the lie to the claim that Britain forces were responsible for only about only 10% of the north’s killings and expose how they armed, directed, paid and protected their loyalist agents to carry out hundreds of killings then denied any blame.

They have asked AOH help to plan and organize this tour.

I have a personal interest in the book because my close friend Liam Ryan, who lived near me in the Bronx and was murdered at the Battery Bar in Ardboe, (a site visited during the FFAI tour) is one of the cases of collusion included in the book. I am asking for your ideas and help to set up the most effective schedule for them including book launch venues-political support-colleges-embassy receptions etc along with events where we can bring in people and help defer expenses.

EASTER COMMEMORATIONS AND DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

A century ago representatives elected in the 32 county election of 1918, assembled as a National Parliament in 1919, and voted Ireland’s Declaration of Independence. An important theme for this year’s Easter Commemorations is the mandate the Irish people gave to the Easter Rising and 1916 Proclamation first by their votes in the British controlled general election and second by ratifying 1916 in the Declaration of Independence. The British instead of recognizing the democratic will of the Irish people responded with Black and Tan terror and ultimately partition. Speakers are encouraged to include the Declaration of Independence and its historic import in all Easter Commemorations.

FFAI TOUR-CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Anyone who doubts the importance of the AOH-LAOH to people in the north should read the full FFAI tour report in the upcoming Hibernian Digest, or speak to any of the 37 Hibernians who attended. We were met by leading figures in Belfast, Derry, Tyrone and Dublin. They met us because they regard us as their voice, as our National President says the “voice of the Irish in America.”

They count on us to put pressure on the British, to highlight injustice and for our donations to key groups. The reception we received is a credit to each member of the AOH-LAOH who works on FFAI or contributed to the Christmas Appeal. Your work matters and is deeply appreciated!

FFAI MONTHLY BULLETIN

After getting behind because of the Christmas Appeal and FFAI tour, I am trying to get the FFAI Bulletins back on a monthly schedule. I held this to include the latest news on Brexit. Please check for the monthly FFAI Bulletin on the New York State and National AOH web sites. We want to give you monthly updates on key events in the north with short analysis and explanation.

MGALVINESQ@AOL.COM.

On Wednesday, February 13, 2019, AOH National Board President Judge James McKay, National Treasurer Sean Pender and National Director Dan Dennehy had an unforgettable meeting with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at the Oireachtas Éireann. The Oireachtas is the legislative body of the Republic of Ireland. It consists of the Office of the President of Ireland and its two houses: the Dáil Éireann (lower house) and Seanad Éireann (upper house). The houses of the Oireachtas sit in Leinster House in Dublin.

The opportunity to meet with the Taoiseach was arranged by Senator Billy Lawless, the first overseas Irish Senator, and a highly respected restaurateur and resident of the Chicago area.  In the photo on the right are (l-r) Senator Billy Lawless, National Director Dan Dennehy, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, National President James McKay, and National Treasurer Sean Pender. The group is standing beneath a portrait of Michael Collins, famed Irish hero, revolutionary, soldier and politician.

Earlier in the day the National Board members had the opportunity to meet with Gerry Adams, former leader of Sinn Féin and presently the Teachta Dála for Louth. In the photo on the left are (l-r) AOH National Treasurer Sean Pender, National President James McKay, TD Gerry Adams, and National Director Dan Dennehy.

Photos courtesy of Sean Pender.

A panel including National President, Judge James McKay, National Freedom for All Ireland (FFAI) Martin Galvin, and Border Cross-Community leaders Damien McGenity, Declan Fearon, and John Sheridan discussed the impact Brexit will cause to All Ireland economics and the peace process. The Border Committee Against Brexit members thanked the Hibernians for their continued commitment to fighting against Brexit and for Irish peace with justice and unity. They also stated their appreciation to Irish Americans for encouraging their federal and state legislators to stand up for the Good Friday Agreement and the peace process. Charlie Casey, President of Newry AOH and a Newry legislator welcomed the group at their first stop.

The annual Freedom for All Ireland delegation which this year includes LAOH National President Carol Sheyer, AOH National Treasurer Sean Pender, LAOH National Secretary Marilyn Madigan, and AOH National Directors Dan Dennehy & Denny Parks is organized by National FFAI Martin Galvin.

Photo credits: Charlie Casey, President of Newry AOH and Newry Town Councillor

Congressman Brendan Boyle has introduce a resolution, H.Res.88 , expressing the opposition of the House of Representatives to the impositions of a hard border in Ireland. We ask you to reach out to your local Congressional Representative and ask them to co-sponsor and support this resolution. Broad, bi-partisan support for Congressman Boyle’s resolution will send a clear message that the US is watching developments in Ireland and will not tolerate the interests of the Irish people being sacrificed for Brexit.

You may find details on how to contact your Congressional Representative here https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative. You may find a sample dialogue to use in contacting your congressional representative here, but you are of course at liberty to use your own words.

A 5 minute phone call to our elected representatives in the cause of the peace and security of Ireland is a small thing to ask in support of the land of our ancestors

The Hibernians are concerned over the continued political vacuum in Northern Ireland, a vacuum in which acts such as Saturday’s violence find sustenance and flourish.  This weekend’s attack is a wake-up call to all those who believe that the issues of Northern Ireland ended with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.  The Good Friday Agreement was not conceived to be an end, but a beginning; an opportunity to leave the well-worn paths of conflict and begin a new journey down the road of peace, a road whose bedrock is parity of esteem.

Yet in recent years, the peace process has wandered off course due to lack of the world’s attentiveness.  Twenty years on, the Good Friday Agreement commitments to justice and equality are yet to be fully delivered.  For over two years one of the Good Friday Agreements most compelling successes, the devolved power-sharing Stormont Government, has been in collapse.  The community of Northern Ireland’s belief in the peaceful institutions of government has been repeatedly shaken by scandals such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). A shambolic Brexit, in direct contravention to the democratically expressed will of the people of Northern Ireland, threatens the economic renaissance which is the unqualified success of the Good Friday Agreement.  Even unfinished, the Good Friday Agreement is a beacon of hope to other nations mired in sectarian conflict. For members of the British parliament to irresponsibly claim that the Good Friday Agreement has “run its course” because it is an impediment to their Brexit ambitions is deplorable; it adds to a sad history of British claims of suzerainty in Northern Ireland while abdicating responsibility.

Violence, such as that which occurred in Derry must be confronted, not only with a law enforcement response to the incident but at its root cause.  Confidence in the peaceful and just institutions of governance must be restored in Northern Ireland. The promises of the Good Friday Agreement, too long delayed, must be delivered upon and not sacrificed on the altar of Brexit expediency.

It was United States involvement in the form of Special Envoy George Mitchell that created the environment that made the Good Friday Agreement possible.    United States involvement is needed again to ward off a potential unraveling of twenty years of post-Good Friday Agreement progress and one of the landmark achievements of US diplomacy.   The Hibernians remind the President of his commitment to appoint a Special Envoy to Northern Ireland.  We must not for inattention allow the light of hope in Northern Ireland to sputter out and to be overtaken again by the darkness of violence.

FFAI ISSUES UPDATE

A- Ballymurphy Massacre Inquest opens-

Forty-seven years after the Ballymurphy Massacre, new Inquests opened in Belfast, as family members of the 11 victims, many holding hands, witnessed the proceedings. The Inquest was technically limited to the 10 victims shot dead by British troopers between August 9th-11th,1971 in the Ballymurphy section of Belfast. However, as the Coroner’s representative, it also covered the killing of Paddy McCarthy, who died of a heart attack after being subjected to a mock execution.

The Inquest began with statements by relatives of Catholic priest Fr. Hugh Mullan, and nineteen year old Francis Quinn, who were the first to die. Family statements from relatives of Joan Connolly, shot while helping wounded victims, along with Daniel Teggart, shot 14 times, and Noel Philips were linked as part of a second incident. Joseph Murphy was wounded, taken into custody and shot again while in the barracks. Edward Doherty, John Laverty, Joseph Corr and John McKerr were killed over the next two days. British Military Police then claimed the dead were gunmen to justify the murder. The families are fighting to get the truth and exonerate their loved ones.

Already there have been a number of shocking revelations. The head of a British veterans group, Alan Barry suborned perjury by instructing troopers to ignore subpoenas or pretend complete memory loss in answering questions. British technical experts reported that victims’ hands had been swabbed for gunshot residue. Nothing was found, meaning none had handled or fired
weapons. However that was ignored by the British. An autopsy confirmed that Joseph Murphy was shot a second time while in the barracks. British troopers boasted to family members and witnesses about “having no time for arrests only killings” as they threw “dead bodies onto a truck like animals”. Families received threatening hate mail mocking the dead. The Inquest continues.

B-Crucial Brexit Vote looms at Westminster December 11th-

The European Union agreed terms with British negotiators to avoid a disastrous hard border across Ireland with British withdrawal from the EU set for March 29,2019. That deal is in danger of being vetoed by the British Parliament in a vote scheduled for December 11th. Hard line Brexiteers within Prime Minister Theresa May’s Tory Party, joining with the DUP, and Labour can vote the deal down. They complain about the proposed backstop or safety net that would only come into play if a full trade agreement is not otherwise reached. No agreement would make the six counties Europe’s border with Britain, with customs, tariff and immigration checks. The EU and Ireland offered to permit the north to remain in the customs union, with customs, immigration controls etc beginning in the Irish sea, meaning at entry points into England, Scotland or Wales. This would benefit the north. However the DUP bitterly condemned even this deal, denouncing preferences for the north as a slippery slope towards a united Ireland. The November 14th deal would require goods coming into the north to meet EU standards and keep Britain in the Customs Union until there was a new agreement. These terms have been called a betrayal by both hard-line Brexiteers and the DUP. Theresa May is now besieged by Tory hardliners, led by Boris Johnson, calling for a hard Brexit and the DUP’s “blood red lines” against preferential terms for the north. The vote on December 11th threatens this new deal and also threatens May’s position as Prime Minister.

C-AOH Tour boosts Ballymurphy Massacre Campaign Families-

An Irish Embassy reception, Congressional meetings, and major public events in Albany, Cleveland, Philadelphia, the Bronx, New Jersey, Manhattan and Long Island heard Carmel Quinn’s call to “stand with us” in the fight for Ballymurphy justice.

Ms Quinn was hosted by the Irish Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Michael Lonergan. She met Senator Schumer who issued a public statement, and key Congressional leaders Congressmen Eliot Engel, Joe Crowley, Richard Neal, Mike Doyle, and aides for Congressmen Chris Smith, Brendan Boyle, Peter King, and Conor Lamb. Pennsylvania State Legislators Michael Driscoll, and Kevin Boyle, joined Ms. Quinn on the stage in Philadelphia to present a House of Representatives Citation, to the Ballymurphy Campaign for “their unrelenting pursuit of justice… for all those killed in the Ballymurphy Massacre.” City Councilman Bobby Henon presented a Philadelphia City Council Resolution honoring Ms. Quinn and the Ballymurphy Campaign.

Ms. Quinn spoke in New Jersey, Cleveland, Long Island, Albany at the prestigious Fr. Murphy Awards event, was honored by Bronx County AOH along with Congressman Crowley and IRISH ECHO Editor Ray O’Hanlon, and concluded the week in midtown Manhattan hosted by New York State Board AOH with a presentation by State President Vic Vogel. AOH members from across Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan traveled long distances to attend the Cleveland event. Proclamations were presented from Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kapture ,Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and City Council President Kevin Kelley. This event was videotaped at the request of AOH Boards around the country, who can now hear and see Ballymurphy’s appeal via Facebook or the National AOH Website. AOH support was highlighted in the main Belfast paper, the IRISH NEWS as well as the Irish-American papers.

D-Tony Taylor released after 994 days Internment by License-

Derry political activist Tony Taylor was released from Maghaberry Prison after spending almost 3 years imprisoned under draconian procedures likened to Internment by License. Mr. Taylor had served a sentence on Republican charges and was released. Then while shopping with his family he was arrested and told he had violated his license or parole, but that neither he nor his attorney would be informed of how. He later got a legal hearing where he, his own political and legal counsel were put out of the room so they could not hear much less put up a defense to the accusations. He was released under severe censorship restrictions and cannot speak about his unjust imprisonment. Internment by License is being used to intimidate other prominent Republicans who were released early for political offenses.

CHRISTMAS APPEAL

You have received the AOH Christmas Appeal mailing. Britain’s actions, imposing Brexit, denying an Irish Language Act, calling legacy justice investigations like Ballymurphy witch-hunts, all show they want to shut the door on Irish freedom forever. We can donate to groups supporting Freedom for all Ireland but only if you members who I know care so much, make donations happen. Please ask your State Board, County Board or Division to respond to the FFAI mailing at your meeting and give to the Christmas Appeal for Freedom for all Ireland. AOH donations to carefully chosen charities through monies raised by the FFAI Annual Christmas Appeal, alongside our political and educational campaigns, are the cornerstone of our FFAI initiative. Our National Officers have asked for a commitment from everyone to participate and support FFAI with a donation or fundraising event. Help make Freedom for all Ireland, not an aspiration or endeavor but the reality for those Irish people still denied it! America can make a difference, but only if the AOH and LAOH, as the voice of the Irish in America, lead the way.

CONGRESSIONAL CALL TO ACTION

Last April sixteen Members of Congress joined a breakthrough bipartisan letter sponsored by the AOH to the British Ambassador about legacy truth. Both the British Ambassador and colonial British Secretary Karen Bradley had to reply. Attached is a draft Congressional letter to the British Ambassador about the Ballymurphy Inquest. Congressman Engel who met Carmel Quinn twice, became the first to send a letter to the British Ambassador that America is watching the Ballymurphy Inquest. FFAI is calling upon AOH members across the country to contact your local Senators and Congressmen, and ask them to send a letter to the British Ambassador. Send me a copy of any letters that go out so that we can publicize here in the US and in Ireland.

IRELAND’S DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

During our National Convention, a resolution was passed to commemorate the centenary of Ireland’s Declaration of Independence. On January 21,1919, representatives elected in the 32 county election of 1918, assembled as a National Parliament, and voted Ireland’s Declaration of Independence. Like the signers of America’s Declaration of Independence, Irish patriots risked imprisonment or death at the hands of the colonial British government. We want to promote this proud event with state, city and local proclamations of Ireland’s Independence
Day.

FFAI TOUR

We are now planning on a week long AOH FFAI Tour visiting Belfast, Derry and Tyrone beginning around February 10th.Please check the AOH web page and watch for further details.

NOLLAIG SHONA DAOIBH!

Merry Christmas

Please contact me at MGALVINESQ@AOL.COM.
Slan
Martin Galvin

Why, why this child? He seems no different than any other; the circumstances of His birth leave much to be desired, then and now. Yet instinctively we know that within His hands lies the whole world, within His veins flows the only cure to our wickedness and pain. He is unique from day one (to use the 2019 March for Life theme).

Throughout the world, every culture and people seem to recognize the innocence and value of a child, going to great lengths to protect the youngest among us. Do the eyes of a newborn hold some universal secret? How else do they remind us of simpler, more innocent times, when all opportunities were open to us and our hearts were unburdened by the chains and cares of our human condition?

But when does that value diminish and why? We know the redemption offered by the Christ Child is open to all, yet our society turns away from those most in need. How is it a newborn is valued, but eight months previous the child is (often) legally without protection? How do we proclaim Christ came to save all men while we sign death warrants that preclude any possibility of redemption? How can we humble ourselves before the manger and then ignore the homeless and poor around us? Like Scrooge do we claim our taxes are succor enough for the marginalized of our society, that if they cannot help themselves they better get dying. Lord, help to remove the beam from our eyes and use it to prick our hearts.

So if you find yourself before the manger this Christmas, let the gospel of peace permeate your soul. Keep the meaning of Christmas in your heart all year round as you pray and advocate for the marginalized of this world. Continue the great works of charity our Order sponsors, advancing our Pro-Life message with word and deed. Hopefully the fire inside will still be hot January 18th and you will join your fellow Hibernians in Washington DC at the March for Life (9am Breakfast, 12:30 Meet @ 7th Street & Constitution Ave). I look forward to seeing you there and until then may you and yours enjoy a Blessed Christmas.

John Patrick Walsh, Pro-Life Chairmen

Tom McNabb’s legacy reached far beyond his service to the AOH. The Irish American Heritage Museum was one of the organizations that benefited from Tom’s hard work and commitment. The Museum recently honored Tom at their annual Gov. Hugh Carey Gala. Pictured is Liam McNabb accepting the award from Museum Executive Director Dr. Elizabeth Stack.

It has been 676 days since the US has had an Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland. In that time, over seventy ambassadorial appointments have been made. It is simply unacceptable given the historic relationship between the United States and Ireland and the countless contributions of Ireland’s sons and daughters to America that this post has been vacant so long. Additionally, in this time of Brexit it is in America’s best interest to strengthen its ties to Ireland as, with the departure of England, it will be the only predominantly English speaking country in the EU. 

A worthy candidate for Ambassador, Mr. Edward Crawford of Ohio, has been put forth by the president. He must undergo a hearing by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee before his nomination is brought to the Senate floor for confirmation. There is a limited window for Mr. Crawford to be approved before the Senate recesses. If Mr. Crawford is not approved before the recess, there may be a significant delay as the Senate reorganizes itself based on the recent elections.   Frankly, we have waited long enough for a US Ambassador to Ireland and must work to expedite the process.

I, therefore, ask if your Senator(s) are listed below that you call their office (phone number listed) as soon as possible advocating for a quick confirmation of Ed Crawford as US Ambassador to Ireland. A suggested dialogue is provided to guide your conversation with the Senator’s office (you may, of course, wish to use your own words). 

The call should take no more than 15 minutes but could have a lasting impact on US/Ireland Relations. It will once again affirm the Hibernians as “The Voice of Irish America.”

I thank you and your brothers in advance for their time and consideration.

Yours in the Spirit of the Order

Neil F. Cosgrove

National PEC Chair

Senators on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Example Phone Conversation

You: Hello, my name is ___ (your name) __. I’m a constituent of Senator __ (Senator’s Name) __from ____ (hometown) ____. Could I please speak to the Legislative Assistant who handles Foreign Affairs?

Congressional Office: “Hi, this is XXXX, how can I help you?” or “That person is unavailable, may I take a message?”

You: My name is ___ (your name) __ a constituent from ___(hometown) ____. I’m calling to ask that the Senator as a member of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee support the swift confirmation of Mr. Edward Crawford as Ambassador to Ireland.  As an Irish American and member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, I am very concerned that in the time of Brexit the United States does not have an Ambassador to Ireland. Given that when the UK leaves the European Union Ireland will be the only English speaking nation within the EU, and the long-standing friendship between America and Ireland it is of vital national interest that we have a US Ambassador in Ireland without further delay.”

Congressional Office: I will let the Senator know that we talked and advise him/her of your interest.

You: Thank you for your time. I hope that Senator XXXX will support this much-needed appointment. May I get your email so that I can follow up with you on this issue? Thank you again.

Stating, “the Ballymurphy Massacre families need American help in their 47-year battle for justice”, Carmel Quinn, a sister of one of 11 victims of the massacre, John Laverty, concluded a five-state American tour sponsored by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The tour came on the heels of the attacks by 150 Tory MPs and British Prime Minister Theresa May who are desperate to discredit investigations of British forces for ‘Troubles’ killings in the north of Ireland. Carmel Quinn, who is also a member of Relatives for Justice, met with U.S. Senators and Members of Congress asking for help in shining the light of justice on the slaughter of the innocents which occurred in Ballymurphy, Belfast, North of Ireland on August 9 – 11, 1971.

While on the U.S. tour, Ms. Quinn spoke about the need to bring awareness to the Ballymurphy Massacre and the need for justice.  She delivered this message again and again to sympathetic audiences in Philadelphia, PA; Middletown, NJ; Suffolk County, NY; Washington, DC; Albany, NY; Cleveland, OH and in the Bronx and Manhattan, NY.

View the videos
Ballmurphy Massacre Documentary
The Cleveland Tour Event

“The Ballymurphy Massacre is a fundamental test of Britain’s ability to give legacy justice. If victims cannot get justice where 11 people, including a Catholic priest and mother of 8 children were killed by British troops, how can we expect justice in any killings or collusion murders where British forces were involved? AOH National Vice-President Danny O’Connell and National Secretary Jere Cole recently promised the Ballymurphy families that America would stand behind them in their battle for justice. We are committed to keep that pledge”. – Martin Galvin, Esq., National AOH Freedom for All Ireland Chair.

On Thursday, November 15, 2018, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer met with Ms. Carmel Quinn, sister of Ballymurphy victim John Laverty.  Mr. Laverty was killed in an incident called the “Ballymurphy Massacre” that occurred at the start of British government’s policy of internment without trial in Northern Ireland.  Over the course of three days, members of the British Army’s Parachute Regiment killed 11 unarmed civilians.  Besides Ms. Quinn’s brother among the victims were a Catholic Priest and a 45 year old mother of eight.   Ms. Quinn and the families of the victims have been seeking accountability for these unwarranted deaths for the past 47 years, an inquest into the killing has only recently convened.  

Ms. Quinn is currently visiting America with her husband Tom on tour organized by the Ancient Order of Hibernians in cooperation with Relatives for Justice.  After meeting with Ms. Quinn and representative of the AOH and Irish American Unity Conference, Senator Schumer released the following statement: 

“Justice has been too long delayed for the innocent victims of the Ballymurphy Massacre, and I am proud to join today with Ms. Carmel Quinn, sister of victim John Laverty, to call for a full, independent international inquiry into these unjustified killings of civilians by British paratroopers in 1971. I applaud the AOH for the ongoing advocacy for peace and justice in the north of Ireland and will work with them, the Irish American community and the Ballymurphy Families to advance the efforts to finally achieve justice for all the Ballymurphy victims. And we shall continue the work to build the support here in America to advance a just, inclusive and equal society throughout all of Ireland.”

The Ancient Order of Hibernians thanks Senator Schumer for his constant support of the cause of justice for the families of the Ballymurphy Massacre victims and all those seeking the truth as part of the legacy of the Troubles  

Saying “the ‘Ballymurphy Massacre’ families need American help in their 47 year battle for justice”, Carmel Quinn, a sister of one of 11 victims John Laverty, will begin a five state American tour as the Inquest opens in Belfast. The tour follows attacks by 150 Tory MPs and British Prime Minister Theresa May aimed at discrediting investigations of British forces for ‘Troubles’ killings in the north of Ireland. A founding member of the ‘Ballymurphy Massacre’ Campaign and member of Relatives for Justice, Carmel Quinn will ask for American help at public events and Congressional meetings in a tour organized by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and Relatives for Justice, but now assisted by a growing list of Irish-American groups.

AT STAKE

Since August 1971 the Ballymurphy families have said that 11 people, including Catholic priest Fr. Hugh Mullan, and mother of 8 children Joan Connolly were murdered over a three day period. The British whitewashed these murders by smearing the victims. These families want their loved ones exonerated

by an Inquest with eyewitnesses and cross-examination of anyone claiming these killings were justified. They have met with repeated delays, jibes about “innocent victims” from DUP head Arlene Foster, and the deliberate cutoff of Inquest funding.

Last week 150 MPs called for an end of former British troopers being “hounded and pursued” by murder investigations, and Theresa May praised the ‘heroism’ of British crown forces who “upheld the law.” While not specifically referring to Ballymurphy, such claims may impact an Inquest considering whether British forces upheld the rule of law by 11 murders.

AOH Freedom for All Ireland Chair Martin Galvin added:

” The Ballymurphy Massacre is a fundamental test of Britain’s ability to give legacy justice. If victims cannot get justice where 11 people, including a Catholic priest and mother of 8 children were killed by British troops, how can we expect justice in any killings or collusion murders where British forces were involved? AOH National Vice-President Danny O’Connell and National Secretary Jere Cole recently promised the Ballymurphy families that America would stand behind them in their battle for justice. We are committed to keep that pledge”.

SCHEDULE

Ms. Quinn’s first public address will take place in Philadelphia on Sunday November 11th at the FOP LODGE 5 BALLROOM,11630 Caroline Road, Philadelphia, beginning at 3pm.organized by Gerry McHale and Pearse Kerr.(267-767-7854).

On Monday November12th, she will speak in New Jersey at the Bayshore Catholic Center 12 Rt. 36, Middletown at 7PM, organized by Sean Pender, Malachy McAllister and Rich O’Brien. (vp@njaoh.com)

On Tuesday November 13th, Ms. Quinn will be at the Suffolk County AOH Division 2 Hall,27 Locust Avenue ,Babylon, at 8pm, hosted by New York State AOH President Victor Vogel and County President Jerry Belmont.(jnlcbel@verizon.net)

Ms. Quinn will travel to Washington DC for a series of key Congressional briefings on Wednesday 14th and Thursday before returning to New York City for an event at O’Lunneys, 145 West 45th street November 15th. She will speak in Albany on Friday November 16th at the AOH Hall, 375 Ontario Avenue, Albany where the prestigious Fr. Murphy award will be presented.

The Midwest will host her Saturday November 17th, at the Cleveland West Side Irish-American Club, 8559 Jennings Road Olmstead Turnpike, organized by Danny O’Connell, Marilyn Madigan and Roger Weist.(216-235-1551)

Carmel Quinn will be honored alongside Congressman Joseph Crowley and IRISH ECHO Editor Ray O’Hanlon at Rory Dolan’s, on Sunday November 18th by Bronx County AOH at 3pm, hosted by Bob Nolan.(347-880-1403)

Please contact me at MGALVINESQ@AOL.COM

Slan

Martin Galvin

The Ancient Order of Hibernians welcomes the formal nomination by the President of Mr. Edward Crawford as Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland. Mr. Crawford’s impressive business credentials and strong cultural connections to Ireland uniquely qualify him for this vital role at this key moment in US-Irish relations. That as a son of County Cork Mr. Crawford was honored as the “Man of the Year” by The Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland bespeaks considerable talents as a diplomat.

The Hibernians respectfully request that the members of the United States Senate expedite the approval of this worthy candidate. At the time of Mr. Crawford’s formal nomination, it had been 640 days since there was a US Ambassador to Ireland. The United Kingdom’s decision to pursue Brexit is reshaping the map of Europe; it is of vital US interest that the already strong bonds of friendship between the Republic of Ireland and the United States be renewed and reinforced. With the departure of the UK from the EU, the Republic of Ireland will be the only predominantly English-speaking country within the European Union. The Republic of Ireland is also home to the EU’s fastest growing economy and its influence is increasing proportionately. It is vital at this inflection point in the history of Europe that America reestablish a long overdue diplomatic presence in Ireland.

The special relationship between the United States and Ireland dates from the time when both nations were colonies. George Washington repeatedly acknowledged the vital contribution that Ireland played in support of America’s quest for independence, a gesture which was reciprocated when Ireland made its own bid for liberty. In these trying times, both nations need to reaffirm the ties of friendship that the exchange of ambassadors signifies. The impact to the history of both nations of the US-Irish relationship cannot be overstated, nor its importance to the future overvalued. The Hibernians ask that the US Senate come together as Americans and in the best interest of the United States confirm Mr. Crawford as the next Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland.

My name is Mike Joyce and I’m in Austin, TX with my wife and young son. We’ve been in Austin for 10 years now with no plans to leave. I joined the Hibernians because I wanted an Irish Catholic experience I remembered from my childhood – thanks to countless Christmas with my grandparents in Youngstown, Ohio and an Milwaukee Irish Fest or two. Unfortunately the AOH didn’t exist in Austin, so we got some guys together and created it from scratch.

I’m honored to serve and help grow the Order where the red dirt yields to the Hill Country and the desert opens into canyons. While our divisions are few and far between out here, it only means there is a lot of untapped potential in a uniquely Catholic part of the country to find new Hibernians.

Our division in Austin, TX came online four years ago and has served all of Texas as our only active division. Austin just held their 4th Annual Half-Way to St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser supporting the Gabriel Project. I am excited to report that we have a colony in Dallas/Fort Worth close to finding their 15th man. I’m confident they will be chartered in the first half of 2019. In Oklahoma, our friends in Tulsa – which is our oldest division at 18 years in the Southwest – are firing on all cylinders and our newest division in Albuquerque, NM is working hard to promote Black ’47. Congratulations to those brothers for getting involved and capitalizing on the opportunity.

What I love about the Order is how accessible all of our officers are and I am no different. Please reach out to me with your questions, membership tips, fundraising ideas, or anything that might be on your mind. You can email me at mpjoyceii@gmail.com or call me on my cell at 804-536-6067. I look forward to helping grow the Order!

With the formal announcement this evening  that Dr. Brian O’Dwyer has been selected to be the 2019 Grand Marshal of the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade,  National President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Judge James McKay has issued the following statement:

As the President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, I wish to congratulate our Brother Dr. Brian O’Dwyer of AOH Division 3 New York County on his selection as Grand Marshal to the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.  The New York City St.  Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the largest parades in the world; we commend the Irish American Community of New York for selecting a man whose stature as an Irish American stands equally as large.

Dr. O’Dwyer exemplifies the Hibernian tradition of defending the Irish Immigrant

community;  fulfilling our Oath to espouse the Irish communities cause and aid them when in distress.  Dr. O’Dwyer has been a tireless advocate for immigrants’ rights. He is a founder of the Emerald Isle Immigration Center, the largest Irish immigrant center in the United States. In its almost 25 years of existence, the center has helped thousands of Irish men and women as they immigrated to New York City. The center and Dr. O’Dwyer continue to be a focal point for the advocacy of Irish immigrant causes and continue to fight for a fair and just immigration policy for the Irish.

In keeping with his fellow Irish Americans, Dr. O’Dwyer has never forgotten his connection to the home of his ancestors.  He has been an active proponent of the peace process; serving as a member of several US Presidential delegations to Ireland and a White House advisor on the Northern Ireland Peace process.  As chairman of the Irish Chamber of Commerce USA, Dr. O’Dwyer works to facilitate American investment in Ireland and Northern Ireland; cementing the peace of today by building hope for the future while reinforcing the special relationship between Ireland and the United States that, like the NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade, predates the American Revolution.

The Hibernians congratulate Dr. O’Dwyer on this great honor and commend the selection committee on their wisdom.  Dr. O’Dwyer’s selection reaffirms the raison d’être of the New York City St. Patrick’s Day parade as a celebration of Irish Americans and their contributions both past and present to our great nation. 

On Tuesday, September 25 Yonkers City Council became the first major city to unanimously adopt the McGuinness Principles. The impetus came from Myles Scully Division One Westchester and its President Kevin Ellis. The Council meeting was attended by officers and members from National, New York State and all of Westchester Counties Divisions, as well as LAOH members, officers of the United Irish Counties, Hudson Valley Irish Center, Police Emerald Society of Westchester County and many Yonkers residents. National Director Dan Dennehy and Division One Past President Bob Stauf testified for the McGuinness Principles.

Dennehy testified as a proud son of Yonkers, he recognized that the City of Yonkers has long embraced the rights of all citizens, including its large Irish American community. The McGuinness Principles seeks the same for all in Ireland, by instilling a Bill of Rights, language equality, justice on legacy crimes and self-determination through a referendum on Irish Unity. Bob Stauf then testified that Yonkers was the first City Council to adopt the MacBride Principles and had issued the first proclamation that Gerry Adams received during his first visit to the US. Stauf thanked Councilmen John Rubbo for proposing the resolution and Councilman Mike Breen and Council President Mike Khader for their enthusiastic support.

Councilman Rubbo remarked that 20 years ago the Good Friday Agreement was ratified by more than 70 percent of the voters in the North of Ireland, yet much needs to be done so that Martin McGuinness legacy may be fulfilled. he also recognized the AOH for keeping the issues of Ireland on their agenda. City Council President Khader said that he studied the McGuinness Principles and the need for these principles is not unique to the North of Ireland. Truth, fairness, and an even playing field are principles we should all live by regardless of race, religion, color, creed or political party and that is why he proudly supported the resolution. McGuinness Principles was then adopted 7-0.

Video of the hearing here: https://view.earthchannel.com/PlayerController.aspx?&PGD=ynkny&eID=1206

The challenges we have recently experienced are balanced by the joy and celebration associated with the many Irish Festivals and Feis that harvest time (Lughnasa) brings. The resilience of our Irish Ancestors is displayed a new for us this Fall in the film Black 47, a cinematic exploration of An Gorta Mor. We have been fortunate to establish a partnership with the distributors of the film in setting up donation stations for Hibernian Charities and information stations for AOH/LAOH recruiting. I urge you all to use the film as an opportunity to share with the many who are sadly unaware of the truth of this critical period of Irish History and to make the most of the opportunity to raise funds for Hibernian Charities.

Please Donate to Hibernian Charities in support of Project St. Patrick (vocations,) the Hibernian Hunger project, Disaster Relief, Medal of Honor Grove, Irish History Essay Contests, and Study Abroad Scholarships. You can do so by writing your check out to Hibernian Charities and writing the focus of your monetary support in the memo section and sending to P.O. Box 19325, New Orleans, LA 70179.

The film Black 47 will continue its slow and limited release in theaters across the United States October 5^th with openings in single theaters in Philadelphia, Denver, Pasadena, Hollywood and a small town outside Houston Katy, TX. (check Latest Opening Schedule for other dates and locations). I hope divisions in these lucky localities make the most of the opportunity to set up Hibernian Charity donation stations (fundraising, food, and clothing) and AOH membership information kiosks in their theaters.

While the movie is available on Amazon Prime Video, this film about a pivotal point in Irish History deserves to be seen in a theatre in its full cinematic splendor and shared with your communities. Attached is a form and contact information so divisions not lucky enough to be on the schedule can get limited screenings and create an event for fundraising, donations, and information sharing purposes.

The basic cost (depends on the format of the film) for a showing is around $400.00. Then if tickets for the movie are sold the producers receive half of the gross ticket sales – theater owners are required to share ticket sales information. Actual arrangements should be worked out by each division based on how many people will see the movie, where it will be shown, and ticket sales (see attached form.)  

Attached: “private showing” request form
Also attached: Hibernian Charities Brochure (this can be printed and handed out at showings in your area).

Other IFCFilms contacts:
For Print Request/Distribution Questions – Marie Zeniter – Marie.Zeniter@ifcfilms.com
For Help with localizing Black47 marketing materials – Shannon Balstad – Shannon.Balstad@ifcfilms.com

Please make the most of this opportunity to share Irish History, Information about our worthy Order, and Hibernian Charities.

In Friendship, Unity and Christian Charity
-Dr. Joe

John Teggart, son of Ballymurphy Massacre victim Danny Teggart, described the fact-finding visit in detail:

“The families outlined how their loved ones were murdered in their own area some 47 years ago. We first took the AOH leaders to the spot where Father Hugh Mullan was shot as he waved a white handkerchief. Brothers of the late Frank Quinn, Liam and Pat, then told how Frank was murdered going to the aid of Fr. Mullan and the wounded Bobby Clarke.

“We showed photographs of Ballymurphy at the time of the massacre. These photographs demonstrate the close proximity of Father Mullan’s house to the field where he was shot. They also show how close the paratroopers were.

“The families then visited the manse field where four of the Ballymurphy victims were shot, including Mrs. Connolly and Mr. Teggart. We described how Danny Teggart was shot fourteen times with high velocity rifles and Joan Connolly was shot by the army and then left out in the open to bleed to death. Mrs. Connolly’s daughter Philomena spoke about her mother and how she was murdered on that day along with six others.

We visited the other spots where the victims had lost their lives. John Laverty’s sisters Carmel Quinn and Rita Bonar detailed how their brother was shot dead along with Joseph Corr. Their brother, Terry, was stopped by paratroopers and given 6 months imprisonment.

Pat McCarthy and John McKerr also lost their lives at the hands of the British Paratroopers on the third day of the massacre.

The visit ended at the spot on the Whiterock Road where Eddie Doherty was killed. Here Eddie’s sister Kathleen detailed her brother’s death and how he was shot in the back.

John Teggart concluded:

“On that first day, on August 9^th, six people were murdered. This happened on a bright summer night at close range. They were carefully aimed shots, direct shots, and in the end, there was no forensic evidence that any of our loved ones were anywhere near rifles.

“There was no ammunition recovered, no guns recovered and there were no security personnel shot in that proximity. This all proves that our loved ones were murdered, they were shot in the back.

“There is a campaign of fake news by some newspapers and some politicians are insisting that the Ballymurphy Massacre has already been investigated and calling for an amnesty for these soldiers.

“The sole people who investigated Ballymurphy were the Royal Military Police. When politicians say Ballymurphy was investigated they are referring to the investigation done by the friends of those who were being interviewed, who murdered our loved ones.

“Just like the Widgery inquiry, the Royal Military Police crafted soldiers’ statements to suit their version of events.

“All the RUC did was take photographs of our loved ones in the morgue and maybe statements from those who had identified them.

“Anybody who says that Ballymurphy was investigated needs to think about the brutality of the Royal Military Police over those three days in Ballymurphy. Then they can see if it was a proper investigation.”

Andree Murphy, Deputy Director of Relatives for Justice said:

“The voices of the families today, as we visited the sites where the 11 were killed gave eloquent testimony to the horror of the killings, the absolute impunity from which the soldiers who took those lives benefitted, and most poignantly the impact that these killings had on the families in the years that followed and to this day.

“It was clear that both Mr. O’Connell and Mr. Cole were moved by this testimony to hardship, horror, strength and fortitude.The timing could not have been better as the British Government attempt to sidestep their international legal obligations to these families and a rearguard action which attempts to defend impunity and disregard victims’ rights is in full swing”.

AOH National Vice-President Danny O’Connell said:

“Both Jerry Cole and I have visited Ballymurphy before and were familiar with the events of the Massacre, but hearing the deep pain in the voices of these family members as they spoke of the murders of their loved ones, while standing in the spots where these murders were committed, was deeply moving. The AOH as a leading voice of the Irish in America recognizes the upcoming Ballymurphy Massacre Inquest will be a fundamental test of Britain’s ability to give legacy justice.

“These families say that 11 innocent people including a priest and mother of 8 children were murdered. They believe their loved ones will be vindicated by an impartial inquest hearing sworn eyewitness testimony and cross-examining any witness who claims justification for these killings.

“Today we stood, shoulder to shoulder behind the campaign banner with the Ballymurphy families, to pledge American support in their fight for justice and truth.

“We will report what we saw and heard today, back to our membership across the United States, and to our elected representatives. The AOH will follow this briefing by monitoring the Inquest, and providing updates on the testimony to our members.

“Our Freedom for all Ireland Chairman has invited Carmel Quinn, a sister of one of the Ballymurphy Massacre victims to come to America and bring Ballymurphy’s story directly to our members in a multi-state speaking tour in November.

“These families are entitled to truth about the killings of their loved ones. The AOH pledges to help them in their long battle to get that truth and justice”

AOH Freedom for All Ireland Chair Martin Galvin added:

“British colonial secretary Karen Bradley has already admitted she had no understanding how elections are fought in the north.

The Ballymurphy Inquest may teach her she has no understanding of how British troops fought in the north.

“The British Army shooting down civilians in Ballymurphy was certainly different from the world she came from in England. If the evidence proves that the 11 killings were murders, how can Britain reject the truth or avoid shifting blame from exonerated innocent victims back onto British troops for murder and smearing the dead? What will it mean for her legacy consultation?