Values brought by the Ulster-Scots and embedded at the foundation
of the United States continue to resonate to this day.
Communities Minister reinforced that message as he
addressed attendees at a special reception in Washington, DC
jointly hosted with the America250 Commission.
Around 200 people from the worlds of politics, business and
culture gathered to mark the role of people of Ulster-Scots
heritage in the signing of the US Declaration of Independence 250
years ago.
Speaking after the event, the Minister said: “The signing of the
Declaration of Independence was both a defining moment in
American history and an important chapter in the long
relationship between Ulster and the United States. From its
earliest days America has been shaped by people who crossed
oceans in search of new opportunities – including thousands from
the shores of Ulster.
“The values they brought with them – religious faith and moral
discipline, respect for education, and a deep belief in hard work
and perseverance – endure to this day.
“Several signatories of the Declaration had family roots in
Ulster, and the first edition was printed by an Ulsterman for the
American people and audiences around the world. Indeed 17 US
Presidents can trace their family heritage to the Ulster-Scots.
“Today, more than 25million Americans proudly identify with Scots
Irish or Ulster-Scots heritage.
“This relationship continues to evolve – through trade and
investment, creative industries, tourism, education, cultural
exchange and through family connections.”
The Minister unveiled the programme of events taking place across
Northern Ireland, funded by his USA-NI250 programme.
He said: “I am delighted to be funding a series of special events
across Northern Ireland this summer that will promote our
history, heritage, arts sector and tourism offering in the
context of America250.
“Concerts, exhibitions, cultural displays, theatre productions
and immersive visitor experiences will tell the many stories and
commemorate the deep historic connections that exist as we
approach the semiquincentennial of the US Declaration of
Independence.
“I would love to see our US friends come to Northern Ireland,
experience some of these events and take the opportunity to trace
their histories in the fascinating archives of the Public Record
Office in Belfast.”
Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who sponsored the event, said: “The
friendship between the United States and Northern Ireland is
rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a long-standing
commitment to peace and prosperity.
“I'm deeply grateful to gather at the reception to celebrate that
enduring bond, and to honour the partnerships that continue to
strengthen our future together.”
Jen Condon, Executive Vice President of the America250
Commission, said: “As we approach America's 250th anniversary,
it's especially meaningful to celebrate the enduring friendship
between the United States and Northern Ireland.
“Our nations share deep historical ties and values that continue
to shape our communities today. Gatherings like this remind us
that the story of America has always been connected to the people
and traditions that crossed the Atlantic and helped build our
country.”
For more information on the USA-NI250 programme and the events it
is funding, visit www.usa-ni250.co.uk
