The middle of March proves to be a time of Gaelic celebration, as Silicon Valley Irish Week commemorates local Irish Americans and San Jose's Sister City Dublin. In 1986, Tom McEnery, mayor of San Jose at the time, founded the event to honor the spirit of Irish culture and heritage.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 1996, Irish Week is an established annual highlight of the area, sponsoring a variety of events. With the arrival of officials and citizens from Dublin, a flag raising ceremony initiates the celebration. Proceeding events include lectures, readings, dinners, and receptions. There is the presentation of the esteemed Spirit of Ireland Award, an award of great honor given to individuals or companies "whose accomplishments have exemplified the strong relationship between Siclicon Valley and Ireland". Some recipients are: President Clinton in 1996, to John Hume in 1995, to Santa Clara University's Dr. Timothy J. O'Keefe in 1990 and to James P. Walsh of San Jose State University, 1990. An ecumenical service for peace in Northern Ireland is also a highlight. Sporting events include a day of Gaelic soccer and football, the annual golf tournament, and, in 1996, a sponsored San Jose Sharks game. To appease those desiring authentic Irish foods, the Fairmont Hotel features the culinary creations of visiting chefs from Dublin. Also, Irish Week sponsors an evening with the San Jose Symphony and an afternoon of traditional Irish tea.
A supportive community ensures that the Irish Week celebration will continue to be a time of heightened cultural awareness. Sponsors of the event include local businesses, restaurants, organizations, an particularly Santa Clara University. Participation in any of the events is open to anyone interested and is encouraged, as participation builds not only strength in the celebration itself, but also a people open and accepting of diversity.
Mary Ann Arndt
