At Home and Abroad

On Sunday, May 17, 2026, community members gathered at the Global Famine Way Memorial in MacDonald Gardens Park to mark the first official National Famine Commemoration Day. The 35-minute ceremony was simple, respectful, and focused on reflection. Guests arrived to soft harp music and gathered quietly around the memorial before the ceremony began. As Master of Ceremonies, I offered a reflection on the importance of National Famine Commemoration Day and the memorial as a permanent place of remembrance in Canada’s capital. A historical reflection from the Irish Embassy by Deputy Jennie Quin which reminded attendees that famine has affected many peoples and nations throughout history. The remarks highlighted how famine caused loss, migration, hardship, and lasting impacts across generations, while emphasizing the importance of remembering these experiences today. A cultural reflection followed, featuring the reading of the poem *Quarantine* by Margaret Harvey-O’Kelly and a performance of the traditional piece *Skibbereen* by Kevin Dooley offering attendees a moment for quiet contemplation and remembrance. The ceremony then observed a solemn minute of silence followed by the laying of flower by Clare O'Connell Noon at the Shoes Memorial. Michael McBane spoke about the importance of preserving these histories through education, compassion, and public remembrance. His remarks emphasized that commemoration is not only about honouring the past, but also about strengthening our shared commitment to human dignity and solidarity. Closing remarks thanked the partners, participants, and community members who helped make the event possible and recognized the gathering as the inaugural National Famine Commemoration Day ceremony in Ottawa. Attendees were invited to return each year to continue the tradition of remembrance. The ceremony served as both a tribute to those who suffered and died during famines around the world and a reminder of the importance of remembering difficult histories together with compassion, dignity, and respect. (Text provided by Nick McCarthy) Nick McCarthy, Jennifer Quinn, Margaret Harvey O'Kelly, Michael McBane, Kevin Dooley