United Irish Cultural Center in San Francisco
A hub of community and connection centred around celebrating our Irish culture
According to a recent census, California has one of the highest populations of people claiming Irish ancestry in the United States.
Few people are more aware of this than Liam Reidy, President of the United Irish Cultural Center in San Francisco (UICC).
Reidy describes the UICC as a:
“hub of community and connection centred around celebrating our Irish culture.”
Strong ties
Born in Broadford, Limerick, Reidy won a green card in 1994 and has lived in San Francisco since 1997. Like so many Irish immigrants, he maintains strong ties to Ireland. He visits whenever possible with his wife and four children.
Speaking about his own relationship to Ireland he says “My connection to Ireland holds a very special place in my heart. It's a deep-rooted bond that signifies a sense of belonging and heritage.”
Living in the United States, Reidy celebrates and promotes Ireland through his work at the UICC. He says, “In San Francisco, my involvement in the Irish community has been a truly rewarding experience.
Irish heritage and culture
"I've had the privilege of being a part of a vibrant and welcoming community that embraces its Irish heritage while also fostering a sense of unity among those with an interest in Irish culture. Our community here is diverse, spanning generations, and is united by a shared love for Irish traditions, music, and of course, the warm camaraderie that the Irish are known for.”
The UICC engages a diverse community of people through:
- educational programming
- entertainment options
- and a much needed all-purpose event space.
It even has a non-circulating library, staffed by knowledgeable volunteers. The library has a growing collection of rare and out of print books important to the Irish diaspora.
Making connections
Liam says of the Irish Center “From traditional music sessions and classes at the Irish Center to cultural festivals and educational events, there are countless opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and keep our Irish traditions alive. It's a community that not only cherishes its own heritage but also welcomes everyone who's interested in sharing the joy of Irish culture. The support and friendships I've found within this community have been truly heart warming, and I'm grateful for the connections I've made here."
Support and growth
The Emigrant Support Programme has enabled the Irish Center to keep tickets and registration prices affordable. It's also helped attract artists and allow for huge growth in their programs.
Liam says “Whether it's organizing cultural events, supporting educational programs, or fostering connections between Irish expatriates and their homeland, the ESP's financial assistance has been instrumental in bringing these ideas to life. It has enabled us to make a meaningful and positive difference within the Global Irish community.”