The African American Irish Diaspora
Ireland is committed to embracing its broader Diaspora and making all who are part of it by blood, as well as by spirit, feel welcome as members of the Irish family. Many African Americans have some Irish ancestry, and AAIDN is helping those with that heritage, along with any who have an affinity for Ireland in any way, to connect with the culture, the people and the land of Ireland, Northern Ireland and the Irish Diaspora, and to connect with one other.
“Beyoncé, Shaquille O’Neal, Muhammad Ali, Barack Obama, Billie Holiday, Colin Powell and Alicia Keys share a common Irish heritage. In fact, you may be surprised to know that 38 percent of African Americans have an Irish heritage.”—The St. Louis American
About
The African American Irish Diaspora Network (AAIDN) connects African Americans with Ireland, Northern Ireland, andthe global Irish diaspora through shared heritage, culture, and collaboration. With nearly 40% of African Americans having ancestry according to some estimates, AAIDN fosters meaningful partnerships that celebrate this legacy while advancing education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange.
Connecting the Diaspora
“Ireland is fortunate in having a diaspora of 70 million people around the world. Our relationship with this global community is something we should cherish and celebrate. Global Ireland: Ireland’s Global Footprint to 2025 – the Government’s plan to double our international presence - commits us to introducing a new diaspora policy in 2020. This new policy will guide Ireland’s engagement and relationship with our diaspora: our emigrants, our citizens abroad, those of Irish heritage and those who feel an affinity with Ireland around the world.” —Consulate General of Ireland\Atlanta
