RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Honorable Michael D. Higgins, the 9th President of Ireland, accompanied by his wife, Sabina Higgins, will make an official visit to Chicago from May 8 through May 13, 2014; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago City Council has been informed of this event by Alderman Edward M. Burke; and
WHEREAS, While in Chicago, the Honorable Michael D. Higgins will attend a wide range of meetings and special events, including a reception to be held on Sunday, May 11, 2014, co-hosted by the Irish American Heritage Center and the Chicago Irish Immigration Support organization; and
WHEREAS, The City of Chicago is exceedingly proud of its Celtic roots and rich Irish heritage as evidenced by the dyeing of the Chicago River green each St. Patrick's Day; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its long and robust history, Chicago has also benefited from the strong leadership and vision of a succession of Mayors of Irish heritage, including John Hopkins, Edward F. Dunne, Edward J. Kelly, Martin J. Kennelly, Richard J. Daley, Jane M. Byrne and Richard M. Daley; and
WHEREAS, Since 1997, the City of Chicago has enjoyed a Sister Cities Agreement with Galway, Ireland; and
WHEREAS, It is therefore fitting that the Honorable Michael D. Higgins continue to strengthen and enliven the long and historic ties between Chicago and Ireland through his official visit to our City; and
WHEREAS, Known as Ireland's "Poet President", the Honorable Michael D. Higgins was raised in Limerick, educated at University College Galway and earned a master's degree in sociology from Indiana University; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Michael D. Higgins has excelled throughout his professional life as a poet, sociologist, university lecturer, author and broadcaster; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Michael D. Higgins was the President of the Labour Party from 2003 until his election in 2011 as President; and
WHEREAS, The Honorable Michael D. Higgins was previously a Teachta Dala for West Galway and Minister for Arts, Cultu...
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