How the Irish Helped Create America

Irish immigrants played a crucial role in building the American railroad, with many working to build the rail system we still use today. They ran the trains that built our economy, which made this country into a global power. This is a tradition that continues today.  

The Irish laid the tracks, carved paths through mountains, and endured the most dangerous jobs on the continent.   

Watch the History of the American Railroad, Part I ► 

SMART-TD members showed up to honor these accomplishments and to salute the enduring contributions of the Irish across the country this weekend.  

We marched in two notable St. Patrick’s Day events: the historic Southside of Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, March 16th, and the Burlington County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Eastampton, New Jersey, on Saturday, March 15th. 

Chicago Southside Parade 

The renowned Chicago Southside St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a staple for 47 years, celebrating the Irish heritage of the city. The parade, known for its rich history and vibrant celebration of Irish culture, provided the perfect backdrop for SMART-TD members to show our solidarity with the Irish community and honor our institution’s roots among Irish immigrants. 

SMART-TD Illinois State Safety and Legislative Director Bob Guy told SMART News that, “Our members really showed up today to highlight the work they do and I’m so proud of them. Our group was even bigger than it was last year even though the weather was worse. That didn’t deter our people because they proudly work in these conditions day in and day out.” 

Burlington County Parade: Celebrating Labor with Pride 

SMART-TD also marched in the Burlington County St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Eastampton, New Jersey. The parade has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated celebrations. Former SMART-TD New Jersey State Legislative Director Daniel O’Connell was honored as the Grand Marshal this year. 

“My Irish heritage is a source of great pride for me. To be selected as Grand Marshall and to have the opportunity to select the theme for this year’s parade are honors I will never forget,” O’Connell said.  

As Grand Marshall, O’Connell chose to honor the men and women of organized labor, with an emphasis on essential workers. Like the Irish immigrants of the past, they are due our respect as the backbone of our economy. The nation would halt without their hard work and perseverance. 

Ron Sabol, SMART-TD’s current SLD in New Jersey, had this to say about his predecessor’s selection as Grand Marshall: “I want to congratulate Dan on this accomplishment and well-earned recognition. O’Connell’s connection to both his Irish heritage and the labor movement is deep-rooted. His choice to highlight essential workers and organized labor in this year’s parade theme underscores the ongoing struggles of workers today. Just as the Irish immigrant laborers of the 19th and 20th centuries stood firm in the face of adversity, we must always remember that our labor is our voice, and through solidarity, we can impact the world around us.”  

The Role of Rail Workers in the Fight for Irish Independence 

Irish rail workers played an important role in the international labor movement and the Irish Revolution, where they tried to gain independence from the British. One of the most significant chapters in the fight for independence took place in 1920 when the Irish rail workers and longshoremen made a unified stand. They declared that they would not transport British troops, weapons, or military equipment, refusing to be complicit in British rule over Ireland.  

Their historic act of resistance was a powerful example of how solidarity has the power to shape not only our immediate surroundings but also the course of national and international events. 

Continuing the Tradition of Labor Solidarity 

SMART-TD’s participation in these parades celebrates Irish heritage, but importantly, also recognizes the vital role that solidarity plays in ensuring fair treatment and equality for all workers.  

As President Jeremy Ferguson put it, “Our labor movement has always been a source of strength for working men and women, and being present and represented in our communities is a reminder of the essential role that organized labor plays in our daily lives. We honor the sacrifices of our ancestors and stand united in our commitment to a better, fairer future for all workers.” 

As SMART-TD members continue to support one another, we as an organization also remain steadfast in our commitment to honoring the traditions of those who came before.