Mayor Walsh to receive 'Freedom of the City' award during Ireland trip

Mayor Martin J. Walsh announced that he will be visiting Ireland from Thursday, May 10 to Monday, May 14, 2018. On his trip, he will meet with Irish officials and address the public on Boston's important economical and cultural ties to Ireland, receive several ceremonial awards, and participate in the unveiling of Kilkerrin Rock.   

"Ireland and the Irish culture hold a special place in my heart, and are a large part of Boston's overall identity as well," said Mayor Walsh. "Our economic and cultural ties to Ireland are undeniable, and it's beneficial for Boston to continue to embrace, support and learn from other countries and cities. I'm honored that our work in Boston is being acknowledged overseas."

While in Ireland, the Mayor will spend time highlighting the importance of cultural richness, acceptance of immigrants, and economic partnerships as well as take time to honor tradition and help start new customs. During his trip, he will attend the following events:

The "Freedom of the City" is a ceremonial award, given by a local government to those who have served in an exceptional capacity, or upon any whom the City wishes to bestow an honor. Mayor Walsh will be accepting this award and joining past recipients such as John F. Kennedy, Pope John Paul II, John Hume, Hillary Clinton, Richard Daley, Nelson Mandela, Ms. Garry Hynes, President Michael D Higgins and Senator Billy Lawless.

Four years after Mayor Walsh helped unveil a stone marker at the site of a planned Emigrant Commemorative Centre in Carna, Co. Galway, the new emigrant center is completed, and the Mayor will be returning to cut the ceremonial ribbon. The Emigrant Commemorative Centre will serve as a monument and a symbolic gathering place for the community and their descendants. The Centre educate visitors on the changing face of the rural Gaeltacht area and Galway's rich immigrant history.

Mayor Walsh will join local dignitaries in the presentation and dedication of the Kilkerrin Rock in his honor. The rock has been inscribed with the words, "To all of our brothers and sisters who had to leave their families and homes, some never to return, in search of a better life abroad," along with the Mayor Walsh's name, the date, and the Irish and US flags intertwined.

Mayor Walsh is being recognized for his achievements and will be named the first ever Freeman of County Galway, proposed by Connemara area Councillor Sean O' Tuairisg. The title of Freeman is a prestigious honor, ceremonial in name. It is typically bestowed upon visiting dignitaries, celebrities and valued members of the community.