Please join us for "From Ireland to Independence," a panel discussion between author Courtney McKinney-Whitaker, Don Mullen, and David Latimer, moderated by Stephen McKinney-Whittaker. The panel will discuss McKinney-Whitaker's new book, Charles Thomson: Irish Emigrant, American Founder and the historic the connection between Ireland and the United States.

The evening will feature appetizers and refreshments, a short historical scene featuring Founding Father Charles Thomson, artifacts on display from Charles Thomson's estate courtesy of Harriton House, and an Irish whisky tasting. 

This event is presented in partnership with the Irish American Business Chamber & Network, The Harriton Association, and the Government of Ireland. 

About Courtney McKinney-Whitaker

Courtney McKinney-Whitaker is an award-winning American author of historical fiction and non-fiction. She is primarily known for her historical research and storytelling focused on early American history, particularly the Scots-Irish and Ulster Scots experiences. Having worked as a librarian, writing educator, and curriculum author for many years, she consults on practicing history with children and young adults and presents to schools and other organizations. tcmckinneywhitaker.com

About Don Mullen

Don Mullan is a bestselling Irish author and investigative journalist whose book Eyewitness Bloody Sunday led directly to the establishment of a new Public Inquiry into the 1972 killings in Derry - at the time the longest-running and most expensive investigation in British legal history. A long-time friend and confidante of the 1984 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu, his work has focused on truth recovery, human rights, and reconciliation. donmullan.org

About David Latimer 

The Reverend Dr. David Latimer, TD, is Minister Emeritus of First Derry Presbyterian Church in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland. A Territorial Army Chaplain for 30 years, he served in Afghanistan in 2008. David was appointed a Freeman of the City of London in 2021 in recognition of his success in bringing young people into the peace process. In 2023, he served as the Lead Liaison, Derry/Londonderry International City of Peace.