Proclamation on Irish-American Heritage Month, 2023
The Emerald Society Movement
It was during the 1950s that the movement for Emerald Societies took hold.
The formation of NYPD Emerald Society (Police Department, City of New York) on March 16, 1953, the NYCD Emerald Society (Correction Department, City of New York) on November 17, 1955, and the FDNY Emerald Society (Fire Department, City of New York) March 17, 1956, led to the formation of Emerald Societies in New York City and across the country.
The founder of the respective Emerald Societies, mindful that the average Irish Organization, composed of Irish people from every walk of life, decided the idea of occupational groups under the name of “Emerald Society.”
The Emerald Society would enable Irish peoples by birth or ancestry to meet their “Brother and Sister Emeralds” in the same trade or profession.
More importantly, it would be a new approach for Irish heritage to continue perpetuating their history, customs, and traditions.
Learn more about the History of the Grand Council
2023 GCUES Parade listing
