Former US President Barack Obama receives Freedom of the City of Dublin
Kenneth Fox
Former US President Barack Obama has been presented with the Freedom of the City of Dublin
The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, on Thursday formally conferred the Freedom of the City of Dublin on President Barack Obama, in recognition of his historic achievements, his commitment to equality, and his enduring contribution to public life.
The Freedom of the City is Dublin’s highest civic honour, reserved for individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the world and whose values reflect those cherished by the people of Dublin.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, said: “It is my great honour, on behalf of the citizens of Dublin, to confer the Freedom of the City upon President Barack Obama.
"This award recognises not only his remarkable achievements as President of the United States, but also his steadfast commitment to democracy, equality, and the power of community.
"President Obama has inspired millions around the world with his leadership and his vision for a fairer, more compassionate society. It is fitting that Dublin now welcomes him as a Freeman of our city."
"In honouring President Obama, I want to link his legacy to my agenda for a Living City, an Active City, and an Engaged City. His story reminds us that politics, when driven by hope, can change lives and open doors of opportunity — that is a message Dubliners can understand and share.”
He said President Obama signed the Roll of Honour during a short ceremony and was presented with a gift of a First Edition of Ulysses (American Edition) by James Joyce, a bottle of Dublin Whiskey by Teelings, and a commemorative scroll with calligraphy by Aoife Lyons by the Lord Mayor.
President Obama said: “To Lord Mayor McAdam, Former Lord Mayor Carr, the Dublin City Council, and the citizens of Dublin: on behalf of Michelle and myself, I accept this honor with deep humility.
"These are, undoubtedly, times of great challenge and great change. But it is in moments like these that we are reminded of who we truly are.
"We are people, the Irish and Americans, who never stop imagining a brighter future for us all.
"That defiant, enduring hope has always been an unshakeable bond that connects our two countries, and so many others around the world. May we continue to strengthen those ties, and keep working to make our world a little more just, more equal, more prosperous, and more free.”
Only 88 people have ever received the Freedom of the City since it was first awarded in 1876. Previous recipients include Presidents of the United States Ulysses S. Grant, John F. Kennedy, and Bill Clinton.
International leaders Nelson Mandela and Mikhail Gorbachev have received it along with sporting heroes Jack Charlton, Ronnie Delany, and Kellie Harrington.
Michelle Obama was also awarded the Honorary Freedom of the City of Dublin in 2017 alongside her husband.
The Government was represented at Thursday's ceremony by Minister Paschal Donohoe.
