CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHALL JUDY COLLINS

On 2025-03-18, Representative Timothy M. Kennedy (D-NY-26) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHALL JUDY COLLINS" in the House. The speech addressed the environment and also covered crime and justice.

CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHALL JUDY COLLINS

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 18, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E221] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING ST. PATRICK'S DAY FOR ALL AND PARADE GRAND MARSHALL JUDY COLLINS ______ HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, March 18, 2025 Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate Judy Collins, whose artistry and social activism have long inspired audiences worldwide. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations enjoy her iconic 55-album body of work, drawing inspiration from her spiritual discipline and her ability to thrive in the music industry for half a century. Judy Collins has long been esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards, as well as her own poetically poignant original compositions. Throughout her career, she has garnered several top-ten hits and gold- and platinum- selling albums. Judy has long used her platform to advocate for the marginalized and the underserved, making her the ideal choice to lead as the Grand Marshal for the St. Pat's for All Parade, which celebrates the beauty of our shared humanity. Established on March 5, 2000, the parade takes place in Queens' Sunnyside and Woodside neighborhoods, historically home to Irish Americans in New York. The St. Pat's for All Parade offers a welcoming space for all and highlights Irish American heritage while promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion, bringing together people of all backgrounds in a shared celebration of love and unity. Mr. Speaker, Judy Collins' appointment as Grand Marshal for the St. Pat's for All Parade is a fitting tribute to her lifelong commitment to inclusivity, justice, and the celebration of diverse voices. Her presence as Grand Marshal not only honors the rich Irish heritage of the parade, but also reinforces the values of unity and equality that she has championed throughout her career. By leading this remarkable event, Judy continues to inspire us all to embrace our differences, stand up for what is right, and celebrate the strength found in our shared humanity. ____________________