Who said Gaelic was a dying language?

Ta an teanga chomh faiseanta in Nua-Eabhrac go mbeidh la specialta chun é a cheiliúradh.

In fact, Gaelic is so popular in New York that is has its own special day to celebrate all its good stuff.

For the past five years, Gaelgoiri ar fud Nua Eabhrac (Irish Speakers all over New York) have been gathering together to celebrate the language of their forefathers at an event held at the Irish Arts Center. This year's Irish Language Day will take place on April 5, 2009 at the center with doors opening at 11.30 a.m.

Elaine Ní Bhraonáin, event organizer and múinteoir  (teacher) Gaeilge told Irish Central that the Irish Language Day will ooze everything Gaeilge. “The day promises poetry, debates, lectures, games and much more all through the medium of Irish,” she said. 

The sassy Gaelgoir said since Irish has been recognized as an official European Language every one wants to be on board with the cúpla focail (few words).  “Some of our best Irish language students are not Irish and have never even been to Ireland,” said Ní Bhraonáin, who hopes to one day have her own Irish cultural elementary school in Manhattan.

Ní Bhraonáin teaches Irish to children and adults from beginners to daoine atá níos flúirse (people more fluent) and it doesn’t stop there. “I get so many requests from people asking for translations and help with the Irish language from tattoos, engravings on wedding bands to wedding speeches, children’s names, grave stone inscription.”

Encouraging everyone to come to the event, Ní Bhraonáin said; “Irish language day is about making the language fun and appealing to all. Whether you want to learn how to say a few words in Irish or are a fluent speaker, you’ll enjoy the day thoroughly.”

For more information contact www.irishartscenter.org  or call 212- 757 – 3318. Email rachael@irishartscenter.org to reserve a place today!
 
Irish Arts Center is located at 553 West 51st Street, NYC (Between 10th and 11th Avenue)