expanding the reach of the Irish diaspora effort outside of the European community

Have you thought about how to work with people who are not traditionally thought of as Irish, specifically African-Americans and Caribbeans?

Last night, I returned to New York after 2 gloriously wet and cold months in Ireland researching shared history and would love to work with you. President Obama's relatives were quite distant, but this is not the case for many, who should be able to find living relatives, if they only felt welcome to do so.

In my family we trace to the ubiquitous Kellys,--but my son's father is a direct descendant of the Beale's of Laois (Quakers), who emigrated to Australia and were deeply connected to Famine relief.

Specially, I would like to put together programs for people of color who would not normally think about coming to Ireland and encourage them to do so during the Olympics next year. I expect to be there, even if I have to don a tour guide cap myself!

All the Best,

Regina Mullen