Following the Flag Raising ceremony on the New Haven Green on Sunday, April 22 commemorating the 96th anniversary of Ireland's 1916 Easter Uprising, an Irish Breakfast fundraiser will be held at The Playwright, 1232 Whitney Ave., Hamden. This is a benefit for the Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade. For more information and reservations, contact Maura Erin McKeown, 203-889-7089. Tickets in advance are $12.00; $15.00 at the door.
The 9 a.m. flag raising includes a mass for peace followed by recognition of local patriots of the 1916 Ireland Easter Uprising. The 1916 Easter Uprising occurred when approximately one thousand men and women captured the General Post Office building in Dublin, Ireland in another effort to break the bonds of British rule and gain independence for their country. This became a key turning point on the road to Irish independence.
This year is also the 31st anniversary of the Hunger Strike at Long Kesh Prison. In 1981, Irish republican volunteers in a British jail on Irish soil undertook a fast to death to retain their status as political prisoners.
This annual public ceremony serves as a reminder to all ethnic groups that freedom and liberty carry a high price. Local honorees are remembered in a roll call and the original "Proclamation of Freedom" will be read.
Police and Fire Emerald Societies, as well as state and local political officials, are encouraged to attend. Please call for arrangements. For information about the mass/ceremony, please contact Joe Lynch at 203-483-4574 or lynch68@sbcglobal.net
**Inclement weather information** This event will take place rain or shine. Tune in to Fox61 or WPLR-99.1 FM Sunday morning for information.
