The University of Colorado Denver welcomed scholars, artists, and community members from around the world for the American Conference for Irish Studies (ACIS), held May 27-31 on the CU Denver campus.
One of the leading organizations dedicated to the study of Ireland and the Irish diaspora, ACIS brings together researchers across disciplines to explore history, literature, culture, politics, migration, and the arts. Founded in 1960, the organization's annual national conference has become a major gathering for Irish Studies scholars and practitioners from the United States, Ireland, Canada, and beyond.
This year's conference drew approximately 250 attendees and highlighted Denver and Colorado's unique connections to Irish history and culture. In addition to keynote speakers, scholarly panels, and roundtable discussions, participants explored the intersection of Irish and Chicano arts and music through a special event at Su Teatro. Attendees also traveled to Leadville, home to one of the most significant Irish immigrant communities in Colorado history, where they visited the Irish Memorial and Annunciation Catholic Church.
The conference theme, "Migration, Labor, and Inclusion in the American Experiment," encouraged conversations that connected the experiences of Irish immigrants with broader stories of migration and belonging that continue to shape communities today.
Hosting ACIS reflects CU Denver's commitment to fostering global dialogue, interdisciplinary scholarship, and meaningful community engagement. Located in the heart of Denver, the university provided an ideal setting for conversations that linked international perspectives with local history and culture. The conference not only showcased Colorado's rich Irish heritage but also strengthened connections between scholars, artists, students, and community members while bringing international attention to Denver as a center for research, culture, and civic exchange.
