With sadness: Billy Lawless, RIP

It is with profound sadness that we note the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Billy Lawless, on November 8, 2024. Billy was a co-founder and Chair of VotingRights.ie, and his loss is deeply felt by all of us who knew and worked with him.

Billy was a tireless champion for Irish emigrants and a passionate advocate for voting rights for all Irish citizens. As Ireland’s first Senator to represent the diaspora, his was a pioneering voice for the Irish abroad in the political system. He was dedicated to ensuring that all Irish citizens, regardless of their location, have representation in Ireland and a say in Ireland’s future.

Billy’s journey from Galway to Chicago and his continuing close ties with Ireland exemplified the emigrant experience that he would represent in the Seanad. His success as a businessman and his commitment to public service made him a respected voice both in Ireland and the US. In addition to his work for the Irish around the globe, he advocated for the rights of immigrants in the US as part of the Illinois Business Immigration Coalition and as chair of Chicago Celts for Immigration Reform.

Billy’s vision of an inclusive Irish democracy that embraces all its citizens, no matter where they live, will continue to guide our efforts.

We extend our deepest condolences to Billy’s wife Anne, his children, grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him. The entire Irish community has lost a great champion, and we have lost an irreplaceable friend, colleague, and leader.