SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines) is one step closer to officially designating official events held on the Republic of Ireland Day in Illinois, adding to the existing statute establishing April 18 in honor of Irish-American Illinoisians.

“It is important for us to honor the one million Irish-Americans who call Illinois home and the lasting contributions they have made on our state,” Murphy said. “Designating this day will show our respect for Irish-Americans’ history, culture, and impact to our communities.”

On April 18, 1949, Ireland officially declared itself independent from Great Britain. Therefore, this date is significant to many Irish-Americans, and many events and celebrations are held in its honor across the state.

Murphy’s bill requires the governor to issue a proclamation announcing the recognition of Republic of Ireland Day within 10 days of April 18th, and designate the official events that are being held in honor of the day. Since Illinois has a large population of Irish-American immigrants and many gatherings in celebration of Irish holidays, designating the Republic of Ireland Day as a commemorative day would further honor Irish-American immigrants in Illinois.

“Given the immense contributions Irish-American immigrants and their decedents have made to our state, it is important that we celebrate their culture by formally recognizing Republic of Ireland Day,” Murphy said. “I look forward to celebrating with the Irish-American immigrants and their decedents in my community on April 18th this year, and in years to come.”

House Bill 4811 passed the Senate on Tuesday. It now awaits the Governor’s signature to become law.