Obama gets Freedom of the City of Dublin 

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Former U.S. President Barack Obama has officially been granted the Freedom of the City of Dublin, one of the city’s highest civic honors. The private ceremony took place at the Shelbourne Hotel on September 25, 2025, nearly eight years after the award was first approved by Dublin City Council.

A Long-Delayed Recognition

Dublin councillors originally voted to bestow the honor on Obama in 2017, but scheduling conflicts meant the ceremony never took place. His recent visit to Ireland provided the long-awaited opportunity to make the honor official.

Ceremony Details

Held in the hotel’s Constitution Room, the ceremony was attended by Lord Mayor Ray McAdam, senior government officials, and former Taoiseach Brian Cowen. Obama signed the city’s Roll of Honor and was presented with a first American edition of James Joyce’s Ulysses, an illuminated scroll, and a bottle of Teeling Irish whiskey.

In accepting the award, Obama expressed his “deep humility” and spoke of the shared values and enduring ties between Ireland and the United States. He emphasized the importance of hope, cooperation, and unity in uncertain times.

Reactions: Praise and Protest

While the event was celebrated by many as a fitting tribute to Obama’s influence, not all were in agreement.

• Several councillors boycotted the ceremony, citing concerns about his administration’s foreign policies.
• Outside the venue, a small group of demonstrators voiced opposition, while supporters gathered to show enthusiasm for the occasion.

The Significance of the Honor

The Freedom of the City of Dublin is largely symbolic today, but historically it represents gratitude and respect from the people of Dublin. By awarding it to Obama, the city acknowledges not only his leadership but also the deep cultural and political connections between Ireland and America.

For many, the ceremony was more than a formality — it was a celebration of shared history, a recognition of service, and a reminder that hope still has a place in global discourse.