§170.18.  Irish-American Heritage Month

A.  The legislature does hereby recognize and acknowledge the following:

(1)  A significant portion of our citizens are of Irish descent whose ancestors immigrated from Ireland as a result of the potato famine in the 1840s, settling in numerous locations throughout the state, often in neighborhoods located near the Mississippi River such as the Irish Channel and the Third Ward in New Orleans.

(2)  A hard-working people, Irish tradition, culture, folklore, music, and dedication to God and family are reflected in the culture and mix of our state's heritage and a source of great achievement and pride to persons of Irish descent in Louisiana.

(3)  It is the policy of this state to acknowledge and foster the varied cultures and influences unique to our region and its people and to support the aspirations of all who wish to retain their historical roots and culture while continuing to improve their own economic conditions and that of our state.

B.  In observance and recognition of the contributions and colorful history of Irish in our state and to honor those of Irish descent in our state, the legislature hereby designates the month of March of each year as "Irish-American Heritage Month" in Louisiana.

Acts 2012, No. 324, §1.