Ireland and the Choctaw Nation - "Black '47"
Top: Choctaw Nations Sculpture to the Irish People
Bottom: Ireland's sculpture to the Choctaw Nation
The story of the Choctaw Nation's generosity towards the Irish during the Great Famine in 1847 is a powerful testament to the enduring bond between these two peoples. Despite their own history of suffering and displacement, the Choctaw people selflessly reached out to help those in dire need.
The Choctaw's donation of $170 may not seem like a significant amount today, but it was a substantial sum at the time, equivalent to thousands of dollars in today's currency. This act of compassion and empathy displayed by the Choctaw people resonated deeply with the Irish and has been remembered and cherished ever since.
The monument "Kindred Spirits" in Midleton's Bailick Park serves as a lasting symbol of the bond between the Choctaw and Irish communities. The nine giant stainless steel feathers shaped into an empty bowl represent the generosity, bravery, and shared humanity of both peoples. It stands as a tribute to the Choctaw's kindness during the darkest days of the Great Famine.
The connection between the Choctaw and Irish people goes beyond the monument. In 1990, Choctaw leaders participated in the first annual Famine walk at Doolough in County Mayo, honoring the memory of the famine victims. In a reciprocal gesture, Irish commemoration leaders walked the 500-mile length of the Trail of Tears in 1992, acknowledging the suffering endured by the Choctaw people during their forced relocation.
The bond between the Choctaw and Irish has deepened over time. An honorary Choctaw Chief is a former Irish president, further solidifying the connection between the two cultures. Additionally, both communities now collaborate to provide assistance to people facing famine and other humanitarian crises worldwide, demonstrating a shared commitment to helping those in need.
The remarkable story of the Choctaw Nation's generosity during the Great Famine continues to inspire and remind us of the power of empathy, compassion, and solidarity between diverse communities. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of immense hardship, acts of kindness and support can forge lasting bonds that transcend time and distance.