Athy Welcomes Senator Bernie Sanders and Jane Sanders for a Historic Visit
26th May 2025: On Sunday, 25th May, 2025, the town of Athy had the distinct honour of welcoming U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and Jane Sanders. The visit was part of the "Made of Athy" series, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and history of the town.
The day began with a warm welcome by the Mayor of Athy, Councillor Aoife Breslin, at Athy Library. The Sanders were greeted with speeches, music, and a heartfelt welcome from the community. Following the library event, the Sanders proceeded to St. Michael’s Cemetery for the unveiling of the "Made of Athy" plaque. Jane Sanders had the honour of unveiling the plaque, which commemorates the iconic anti-war folk song "Johnny I Hardly Knew Ye." The song, with its deep historical roots, has had many incarnations on both sides of the Atlantic over the centuries.
The event concluded with a traditional music session at O'Brien's in Emily Square, where attendees enjoyed the vibrant sounds of local musicians.
The visit of Senator Bernie Sanders and Jane Sanders to Athy was a memorable occasion, highlighting the town's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and fostering international connections. The event was organised locally, coinciding with a visit to Ireland by The Robert Tressell Festival and SIPTU, with the support of the Kildare County Council’s Library & Arts team, and the local community.
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