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Friends of Sinn Féin is registered w the DOJ under the Foreign Agents Registration Act as an agent of Sinn Féin. Reg doesn't imply approval by the US Gov.

This material & the reg statement are on file & available for inspection at the DOJ & www.fara.gov. Friends of Sinn Féin is registered with the Department of Justice, Washington D.C. under the Foreign Agents Registration Act as an agent of Sinn Féin. This material and the registration statement are on file and available for inspection at the Department of Justice and on their website www.fara.gov. Registration does not imply approval by the United States Government. Through FOSF USA people in the United States can support Sinn Fein, the Irish peace process and the efforts to bring about a united and free Ireland. FOSF USA is not a membership organization, but provides public forums for Sinn Fein to present their views throughout the United States. Such events are planned and scheduled for Sinn Fein leadership figures visiting the U.S., according to their availability. Sinn Fein’s representative to the United States, Ciaran Quinn, regularly briefs U.S. politicians, the media, and Irish America on the peace process. FOSF USA welcomes all donations, which it accepts and accounts for as the agent for Sinn Fein. FOSF USA is an efficient and effective channel through which people in the U.S. can support Sinn Fein and its efforts for peace with justice in a united Ireland.

08/27/2026

Right to United Ireland referendum is a matter of law in the Good Friday Agreement and will be delivered

Uachtarán Shinn Féin Mary Lou McDonald, Leas-Uachtarán Michelle O’Neill and North Belfast MP John Finucane today met with the new British Prime Minister Andy Burnham during his first visit to the north.

Mary Lou McDonald said: “The right to a referendum on Irish Unity is a key part of the Good Friday Agreement. It was agreed in referenda and is enshrined in international law.

“It is not a concession in the gift of any British politician and sends a very dangerous message to those within unionism who want to obstruct, delay and attempt to recreate a past based on division and supremacy.

“The British Prime Minister needs to realise that refusing to prepare will not stop change from coming. It is as reckless as what happened with Brexit.”

Mary Lou McDonald continued, “Today we had a robust exchange with the new British Prime Minister. To mark his first visit to Ireland with such divisive and ill-informed comments, that fly in the face of the Good Friday Agreement is totally unacceptable.

“The right to a referendum on Irish Unity is key part of the Good Friday Agreement. It was agreed in referenda and is enshrined in international law.

“It is not a concession in the gift of any British politician. It cannot be casually cast aside or taken off the table and suggesting that it can sends a very dangerous message to those within unionism who are attempting to recreate a past based on division and supremacy.

“In the period ahead the people of Ireland, north and south, will have the opportunity to determine our future in a unity referendum.

“That is what people voted for. If the British Prime Minister really wants to learn the lessons from their disastrous Brexit referendum, then the responsible thing to do is to prepare for the possibility of constitutional change in Ireland so that change when it comes, is planned, orderly and inclusive.

“Sticking his head in the sand is not a strategy. Refusing to prepare will not stop change from coming. It is as reckless as what happened with Brexit.

Michelle O’Neill said, “I also pressed the British Prime Minister on the importance of adequate funding for the north, to deliver real financial support for workers, families and communities during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. He needs to reverse years of underfunding for the north and support economic development with strong public services and strong communities.

“I also spoke about the necessary reform of the Assembly and the need for parties within the Executive to work together to deliver progress.

“Unfortunately, there are those who continue to try undermining power-sharing and attempt to drag society back to days of sectarianism and division.

“We have seen that again this week as they set out their desire to force a parade down Garvaghy Road.

“The people of Garvaghy Road have lived peacefully for twenty eight years, and the sectarianism and the violence visited upon that community cannot and will not be allowed to happen again. Sinn Féin stands fully with the people of Garvaghy Road.

“On legacy, Sinn Féin reiterated to the British Prime Minister that any process must be centred on the rights of victims and families rather than protecting the state or any group within it.

“There can be no preferential treatment. Too many families are waiting for the truth and justice they have been denied for far too long.”

08/25/2026

Did you watch our latest Irish Unity Education Webinar with Mat Cullen MP? We dig into the details and specifics of health and care in a new and united Ireland - not to be missed!

https://youtu.be/KvnZJQ2BzZA

08/24/2026

Pittsburgh Remembers Hunger Strikers at Annual Mass and Memorial Service

More than a hundred people gathered at St. Patrick’s church in Pittsburgh, PA where Friends of Sinn Féin joined the Pittsburgh branch of the Irish American Unity Conference and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Ancient Order of Hibernians to mark the 45th Anniversary of the Hunger Strikes.

The organizers said, “Hunger strike has been used by many to demonstrate against injustice. We acknowledge the legacy of those who have made this significant sacrifice in Ireland’s struggle for freedom from oppression.”

Sinn Féin’s Representative to North America Ciarán Quinn offered an address to the crowd, saying, “It is said that a person never dies if their name is spoken.

“Today we remember Bobby Sands, Francis Hughes, Raymond McCreesh, Patsy O’Hara, Joe McDonnell, Martin Hurson, Kevin Lynch, Kieran Doherty, Tom McElwee and Mickey Devine.

“They will never be forgotten; their legacy lives on.

“It is found in homes across Ireland. It is with us here in Pittsburgh.

“Bobby Sands said of the British, ‘They have nothing in their whole imperial arsenal that can break the spirit of one Irish Republican who does not want to be broken.’

“The Hunger Strikes of 1981 reenergised the Republican movement, opened up the potential for electoral politics, and showed the world the true face of British policy in Ireland.

“I truly believe that we are living in the last days of partition.

“The Good Friday Agreement provides a peaceful and democratic pathway to Irish Unity. It puts the future in the hands of the people in the North and South. It provides for Unity Referendums and obliges the governments to act on their outcome.

“An opportunity denied to the men and women of 1981 and all who came before us. We live in a time in which no one needs to go to jail, to die or to be injured.

“We, all of us in this room, have a role to play. Irish unity can and will be delivered peacefully. We can be the generation to end partition. Now is not the time to sit back and wait.”

In his remarks, Friends of Sinn Féin Director Greg O’Loughlin said, “The Good Friday Agreement changed everything – we have a well-defined path to a new and united Ireland that is based on international law, democratic principles, and self-determination.

“What has not changed, however, is the need for dedicated, engaged, and courageous Irish Americans to continue to serve the cause of an Ireland free of British rule.

“We can all see the remaining pieces on the board as the endgame is coming into sharper focus. There is no longer a need to meet in back rooms or speak in codes, thanks to the effort and sacrifices of so many before us.

“There is still a need as strong as ever for Irish America to speak out and speak up in favor of the people of Ireland creating their own path to freedom and their own means of self-governance.

“And that means that the voices, work, and activism of us in America are as vital and as needed as ever. We must continue to support the brave and dedicated work of the men and women in Ireland who are calling for their right to self determination. We must continue to let our elected leaders know that we value the fundamental democratic principles guaranteed by the Good Friday Agreement.”

08/23/2026

Have a Banana - A Letter from Ireland

a Chara,

I’m writing from New York, and this weekend I will be travelling to Pittsburgh for their annual Hunger Strike Commemoration.

In New York, I spoke at a wreath-laying ceremony at the graveside of John J. Breslin to mark the 150th Anniversary of the return of the Catalpa Rescue to New York.

Breslin was central to the greatest prison break in history when Clan na Gael in America freed six Fenian prisoners from Fremantle in Western Australia. Historian Marcus Howard brilliantly told this epic tale of bravery in the face of adversity at the New York Irish Centre.

The night before, I attended a lecture in Brooklyn by Dr. Ruan O’Donnell, who traced the twists and turns of the Fenian movement’s development in the US and in Ireland.

The impact of the US Fenians on Ireland cannot be overstated and was central to the Easter Rising. They also had a global impact by developing the first military submarine and the Thompson submachine gun, and their actions led to the Confederation of the States, forming modern-day Canada. But that, as they would say, is a story for another day.

The Irish in America and Canada are rightly proud of their impact on Irish History. From Wolfe Tone arriving in Philadelphia through to today, the right to national self-determination has been the common thread. History has taken many detours and faced many setbacks, with differences over personalities and tactics, but the right to national self-determination has been constant.

We remember the past to learn from it and be inspired by those who selflessly gave themselves to the cause of Irish Freedom. In Ireland, it appears that some have forgotten their past and desperately cling to a status quo that failed the people and the island.

This week, it was reported that Taoiseach Micheal Martin told a party meeting that he “goes bananas” when his party colleagues raise Irish Unity referendums.

Many Fianna Fáil members can trace their heritage back to the revolutionary generations of Fenians and the Rising. They attend commemorations and sing the songs of struggle, yet their leader refuses to advocate, plan or prepare for unity.

Sinn Féin has led the call for unity referendums as agreed and endorsed in the Good Friday Agreement. But these objectives can only be delivered by a wider alliance of domestic and international parties, governments and civic groups. All have a role in securing and building a new and united Ireland. The only nationalist or Republican party outside of this consensus is Fianna Fáil under the leadership of Micheal Martin.

It is no surprise that the British Government hide behind the Irish Government objections to unity referendums.

At the beginning of August, well-renowned and respected academic Prof. Brendan O’Leary was asked to identify the biggest obstacle to Irish Unity and, without missing a beat, said, “Micheal Martin.”

This week in New York and Pittsburgh, we remember the past and plan for the future.

The legacy of the Fenians and the hunger strikers has outlasted governments and changed Ireland. We will continue to secure Irish Unity referendums, so have another banana, Taoiseach Martin.

Have a great weekend. I hope to see you along the road.

Is mise,

Ciarán Quinn
Sinn Féin Representative to North America

08/21/2026

Capacity Crowd Remembers 150th Anniversary of Catalpa Escape at New York Irish Center

A standing-room-only, sold-out crowd met at the New York Irish Center on the evening of August 19, 2026 to remember and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the returning of the Catalpa. After some songs and tunes by an excellent traditional band, historian Marcus Howard recounted the details of the planning, coordination, and bravery of the Fenians who made and executed the plan to break 6 Fenian prisoners out of Fremantle Prison and bring them from Australia to New York.

Many had travelled from all over the North East to hear the story told and to learn about the escape. People came from New Bedford, MA, Hartford, CT, Springfield, MA, and beyond to celebrate the exact 150th anniversary of the ship’s return to New York harbor.

At the conclusion of his presentation, Marcus Howard reflected on the moment and said, “We’re not only here tonight to learn about history, but we are here tonight to make history. Coming together to reconnect with the long legacy of these brave and daring Fenians reminds us of what is possible. There will only be one 150th anniversary of this event, and we are making sure to mark the moment, and to make sure these stories and this history continue to inspire.”

08/20/2026

Clan na Gael, Friends of Sinn Féin USA & Australia honor John Breslin

More than a dozen people gathered at the grave site of John Breslin exactly 150 years after his return to New York after orchestrating one of the most daring prison escapes in history.

On August 19th, 2026, members of Clan na Gael led a commemoration along with Friends of Sinn Féin on a beautiful summer afternoon. Flowers were laid at Breslin’s headstone, provided by Clan na Gael, Friends Sinn Féin USA, and Friends of Sinn Féin Australia.

Speaking at the site, Sinn Féin’s Representative to North America Ciarán Quinn said, “I am honored to be asked to speak at the graveside of John Breslin, an Irish patriot, and to remember the return of the Catalpa to New York 150 years ago today.

“When it landed here, it carried more than six freed prisoners and a weary crew.

“It carried with it the hopes and dreams of an Irish Republic. It demonstrated that a dedicated few can break the might of the British Empire.

“For John Boyle O’Reilly and John Devoy, this mission was both political and personal. They had recruited members of the British military into the Fenian movement. Their friends and comrades languished in the tomb.

“For John Breslin and John Desmond, it was their duty as sworn Fenians to be the advance party for the escape. They held their nerve and maintained their cover for months.

“Freeing the prisoners demonstrated that the will of the British empire could be faced down. It re-energised the Fenian movement in the US.

“In Ireland it revitalised the Irish Republican movement. Both of which would lead to the 1916 Easter Rising which would be supported by our exiled Children in America.

“Governments come and go, but our struggle continues to secure the right to self-determination.

“To secure and win unity referendums. To build a new and united Ireland. A home for all our people. That will be the legacy of the Fenians of the Catapla.”

08/18/2026

"Fianna Fáil’s current leader is temporary Taoiseach, Micheál Martin. Followers of Irish politics have long recognized that he is likely the biggest obstacle to real progress on Irish unity." - Brehon Law Society of NY on Taoiseach's Border Poll Remarks

READ FULL STATEMENT - LINK IN COMMENTS

08/17/2026

The Humes/Adams Initiative should be an incentive for a modern-day process that can increase momentum towards a new and united Ireland, Sinn Féin party chairperson, Declan Kearney has said.

Writing in An Phoblacht, the South Antrim MLA said: “The dialogue between Gerry Adams and John Hume was a very important process that culminated in an agreement on shared principles, which included the need for a peaceful, democratic way forward to secure Irish unity.

“While we have come a long way since then it still provides a valuable reference point.

“Irish unity is the big idea of our time and self-determination is the means to bring it about.

“It should be above party-political differences. Reunification and reconciliation are the next phase of our national journey.

“The Humes/Adams experience should be a present-day incentive for all parties within the national democratic tradition, including the Irish government, to affirm political principles and objectives for the achievement of Irish unity.

“It is time for all strands of Irish national democratic opinion to gather in a single political forum or convention to deliberate, agree, and then speak with one voice on how to plan for Irish unity, and initiate the constitutional transition.

“This could shape the terms of a new conversation between the Irish and British governments to end partition, jointly manage transfer of sovereignty over the north to the Irish state, and address the future relationship between these islands.

“A new initiative informed by that seminal experience can today bring momentum to achieving the right to exercise Irish national self-determination, and begin the transition to a reconciled, united Ireland.”

Read the full article - link in comments.

08/16/2026

The Fleadh comes to Belfast - A letter from Ireland

a Chara,

August in Ireland is the peak holiday season. Institutions are in recess, and people’s minds are elsewhere. Yet last weekend was one of the most politically significant of my lifetime.

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was held in Belfast. This is a festival of Irish music, dance and culture. The Fleadh is centred around competitions and draws Irish musicians and dancers from across Ireland and internationally. Outside of competitions, there are gigs, impromptu music sessions, and classes.

Previously, Wexford held the attendance record at 750,000. Over the week in Belfast, an estimated 1.6 million people attended. Because of work commitments, I could only go on Saturday. I had been to other Fleadhs before, but nothing prepared me for what I saw.

There were all forms of Irish music, everywhere, and I mean everywhere. Kids busking, sessions in pop-up bars, dancers taking over the streets, a Ceili in the grounds of City Hall. GAA jerseys from counties across Ireland and clubs across the world. Unionist marching bands shared stages with Irish Traditional musicians and dancers. It was a joyous celebration to which all were invited.

The city centre was fully pedestrianised and lined with stalls. The grounds of St. Anne’s Church of Ireland and St. Mary’s Catholic Church were opened to Fleadh goers. The Belfast that I grew up in was gone and all the better for it.

I would never have considered wearing a GAA jersey into Belfast city centre in the 1980s as it would have set you up for harassment at the hands of the RUC and attack by unionists. Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, then a Sinn Féin Councillor, was ejected from the council chamber for the crime of speaking Irish.

In the early 1990s, I, along with others, tried to mark St. Patrick’s Day with an open-air music session. We had identified a location, secured sponsorship and enlisted musicians. The event was cancelled as the then Unionist council refused an entertainment licence.

August 1993 was the first time an Irish republican protest march was allowed into the City Centre. The theme of the march was “Our City Also”. That evening, unionist paramilitaries shot up the house of Sinn Féin Councillor Bobby Lavery, killing his son Sean. The message was clear: there would be no place for Irish republicans, citizens and our culture in the capital of British Unionism.

Since then, a generation has grown up in peace. Campaign by campaign, the city has gradually become more shared. This change was not inevitable; it was won through sustained struggle. Sinn Féin became the largest party, while unionists lost their overall majority.

I spent the first hour walking through the crowds, taking it all in, and thinking of how far we have travelled. Belfast is now a shared city. Irish Republicans have never sought dominance over or the subjection of others; our experience as Irish citizens living in a British Unionist State knows that approach only leads to division and conflict.

It is said that where culture leads, politics follows. We have come far but have further to travel. Last week demonstrates a vision of a new and united Ireland. One that is home for all who share our land.

Have a great weekend.

Is mise,

Ciarán

07/26/2026

Join us for a conversation about health & care in a new & united Ireland with
Pat Cullen on Sunday, August 2, at 2:00pm ET. We'll discuss the key questions & topics related to the potential healthcare benefits of a United Ireland! It's free & all are welcome! Registration link in comments.

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