GRAND COUNCIL

UNITED EMERALD SOCIETIES

The movement for Emerald Societies began in the 1953. It started with the NYPD Emerald Society (New York City Police Department) on March 16, 1953. Next was the NYCD Emerald Society (New York City Correction Department) on November 17, 1955. This was followed by the FDNY Emerald Society (New York City Fire Department) on March 17, 1956. This movement created Emerald Societies in New York City and across the country.

The Grand Council of United Emerald Societies was organized on May 29, 1956, in New York City. The Council’s membership comprised all the Emerald Societies and Irish-American societies serving in federal, state, and city civil service. The Grand Council was reorganized on February 18, 1975. Today, it functions as a national umbrella organization of Emerald Societies with over 20,000 members. These members encompass 28 affiliates in Arizona, California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. Additionally, there is one affiliate that operates nationwide.

Members of our organizations work in important roles. These include Law Enforcement, Fire Service, and EMS. Other roles are in Education, Waste Management, Mass Transit, and Public Utilities.

We are open to new affiliates! Does your Emerald Society or Organization have more than 75 members? Are your members working for a Local, State, or Federal agency, public utility, or industry? Visit our affiliation management to start the process.

Check out our Employment Resources Page for information on civil service, public utility exams, and job openings.

The Grand Council typically convenes on the first Wednesday of each month. Meetings are held at various locations. These locations are throughout New York City, Westchester County, and Long Island. Notably, the Grand Council does not meet during the months of July, August and January.

The Grand Council will gather at Antuns of Queens Village. The occasion is our 70th Anniversary Irishman of the Year Dinner. This event takes place on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

Ní neart go cur le chéile–There’s no strength without unity

2026 Irishman Of The Year Dinner

2026 Cigar Night

Quick Guide To Starting an Emerald Society

LINKTREE

Around the Emerald Green Newsletter

Fraternally,

Martin Bellew, President